Colombo, Sri Lanka — In a historic development for Sri Lanka’s sporting landscape, the country has been selected to host the 2026 World Boxing Championships, marking a monumental achievement in its boxing journey. The announcement was made by the Asian Boxing Federation, with the final age categories and gender brackets to be confirmed in the coming months.
The prestigious tournament, expected to bring together elite boxers from across the globe, will be staged in Colombo, setting a new benchmark for the island nation’s capability to host international sporting events of the highest calibre.
According to the official statement, the landmark decision followed high-level discussions between International Boxing Association (IBA) CEO Chris Roberts, Asian Boxing Federation Interim President Aziz Koshambetov, and Sri Lanka Boxing President Dr. Anuruddha Shanaka Bandara. These talks were held with key representatives of the Sri Lankan government and local sporting authorities, who expressed strong commitment and readiness to host the championship.
The announcement was strategically timed on the final day of the Asian Under-22 and Youth Boxing Championships, which concluded at Colombo’s Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. That event saw participation from 23 countries and was widely praised for its smooth execution and world-class hospitality.
“The youth championships served as a perfect dress rehearsal,” the statement noted, with officials commending the high level of organization, facilities, and logistical support provided to athletes, coaches, and international delegates.
Nations represented at the recent championship included Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, French Polynesia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
With the 2026 World Championships on the horizon, Sri Lanka is now gearing up for a massive influx of global talent, fans, and media. Sports enthusiasts, athletes, and tourism stakeholders alike are hailing this as a golden opportunity to showcase the country’s potential on the world stage.
All eyes are now on Colombo as it prepares to enter the global boxing ring.
