Dubai Hosts 13 Matches at the World Boxing Championship

The world's biggest boxing championship wraps up Saturday night in Dubai with 13 gold medal fights and $8 million in prize money - the largest purse in the sport's history. The 23rd Men's World Boxing Championships brings together 118 national federations under the International Boxing Association (IBA) for what organizers call the most significant event in boxing's timeline.

Dubai's Duty Free Tennis Stadium will host the final night of competition after days of qualifying rounds that narrowed the field to the sport's elite fighters. The tournament represents a major moment for boxing, especially as the IBA works to rebuild its reputation and financial standing after recent organizational upheavals.

Before the evening fights begin, the IBA General Assembly will meet with representatives from all 118 participating federations. This gathering carries weight beyond the usual administrative meetings - it comes as boxing faces uncertainty about its Olympic future and questions about governance that have plagued the sport for years.

The competition spans 13 weight classes, from light flyweight (46-48kg) up to super heavyweight (+92kg). Russian and Central Asian fighters dominate the finals lineup, with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, and other former Soviet republics claiming most spots.

Some key matchups include Russian Khodovan Edmond facing Azerbaijan's Mammadov Sabhan in light flyweight, while Uzbekistan's Dustomatov Hasnbay takes on Russia's Bataliev Bair in flyweight. The heavyweight division features Uzbekistan's Khaboulaev Tourabeik against Russia's Gadzhimagomedov Muslim, and the super heavyweight final pits Uzbekistan's Mokhanov Arman against Russia's Sourov David.

The $8 million prize pool reflects the IBA's push to attract top talent and rebuild boxing's commercial appeal. This financial commitment matters for a sport where many elite athletes struggle to earn consistent income outside of professional circuits. For participating federations, the tournament also serves as a crucial revenue source and development opportunity.

Dubai's hosting of the event fits the UAE's broader sports strategy of attracting major international competitions. The country has invested heavily in becoming a regional sports hub, and boxing represents another piece of that puzzle alongside Formula 1, golf, and tennis tournaments.