After a number of controversial decisions in the Ring at the Olympics, the AIBA has announced it is sending home a number of judges and referees from the Games.
Most prominently Michael Conlan on Tuesday and Kazakhstani fighter Vasily Levit on Monday were on the unfavourable end of deplorable judgements.
In a statement released by the association, they say that decisions in a 'handful' of bouts were not up to the expected standard and so action was taken. However, they deny all allegations of corruption.
Following recent judging decisions and after carrying out a thorough examination by the relevant Commission, AIBA has decided to take immediate and appropriate actions.
Since the beginning of the Olympic Games, AIBA has conducted 239 bouts. The AIBA R&J Commission has reviewed all decisions and determined that less than a handful of the decisions were not at the level expected and consequently it has been decided in accordance with the AIBA R&J evaluation committee that the concerned referees and judges will no longer officiate at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. In accordance with AIBA Rules the result of all the bouts will stand.
AIBA represents 200 National Federations and has continuously sought to evolve the sport of boxing and continuously strive to ensure a level playing field. AIBA will not shy away from its responsibilities and is fully committed to a zero tolerance policy towards fair play in boxing, always acting in the boxers' utmost interest. The Olympic Games represent the pinnacle of all sports and Boxing has been part of this since 1904. It is essential AIBA stands to the values of respect, sportsmanship, excellence and remains committed to a fair and transparent sport.
With regard to corruption, we would like to strongly restate that unless tangible proof is put forward, not rumours, we will continue to use any means, including legal or disciplinary actions to protect our sport and its R&J community whose integrity is constantly put into question. The organization will not be deterred by subjective judgements made by discontented parties. We welcome all parties to come forward and provide evidence in order to take appropriate and immediate action.
That statement is likely to be of little consolation to Michael Conlan who yesterday had his dream of being an Olympic champion taken away from him.
Which judges are being sent home is not known.
Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
