The International Boxing Association (IBA) and Real American Freestyle (RAF) have signed a partnership agreement in Moscow, laying the groundwork for a series of joint projects and an expanded international tournament calendar.
The agreement was signed by IBA President Umar Kremlev, CEO & CoFounder of RAF Chad Bronstein, and COO & CoFounder of RAF Izzy Martinez.
The partnership will focus on developing joint initiatives and broadening the geography of international competitions, with RAF tournaments planned in a number of new countries. Events are already scheduled in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, China, Tajikistan and India.
The collaboration begins with RAF Moscow, the first tournament to be staged jointly by the two organisations which is set for September 5.
IBA President Umar Kremlev said: “I am delighted that the RAF league has emerged, giving athletes the chance to showcase their abilities. I am glad the athletes have come here — they are demonstrating that we stand for sport. I want to thank the organisers for their determination to hold this tournament in Moscow.
We want to hold the next tournaments together in Central Asia, and next year we would like to stage one at [the biggest football stadium] Luzhniki. What matters most is that it is exciting for the spectators.
RAF has already made it possible for American and Russian athletes to come to Moscow. We can build a bridge between the USA and Russia, so that people can travel to one another without a visa.”
