The Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) will henceforth be known as Boxing Ireland, in a rebranding exercise the governing body has hailed as part of “transformational milestone for the sport and the beginning of a powerful new era of visibility, engagement and commercial growth”.
The 115-year-old body revealed its intent to pursue a new brand identity last September, seeking out input from stakeholders, including clubs, units and members.
The IABA previously underwent a name change in 2016 when the Irish Amateur Boxing Association was compelled to drop “amateur” after a directive from the global governing body, then know as the AIBA, but not referred to as the IBA.
A video promoting the name change features double Olympic champion Kellie Harrington and fellow internationals James Whelan, Kristian Jubani and Roisin Hegarty, with narration provided by actor and former amateur boxer Liam Neeson.
The historic IABA crest will continue to feature on National Championship medals in a move designed to preserve tradition and identity, while footage and records from the past will be digitised and available on the organisation’s new website.
Boxing Ireland CEO Gary Stewart said of the move: “Boxing Ireland is a brand built to honour the past, empower the present and really put our purpose as a community front and centre.
“It gives us a clearer, stronger and more recognisable identity, both at home and internationally, which is essential for increasing awareness of Irish boxing and the incredible talent within our community.
“Boxing builds people for life. The new identity says unequivocally that we are Boxing Ireland, and we’re proud of it.”
Boxing Ireland President Anto Donnelly added: “Now is the time for Boxing Ireland. I am immensely proud to welcome our new identity.
“This rebrand is about strengthening our foundations and putting our clubs and communities at the very heart of everything we do.
“Our grassroots clubs are the lifeblood of Irish boxing. They are where young people find opportunity, discipline, confidence and belonging.”