The World Boxing Association is celebrating what it calls a banner year in finances and title fights, staging more than 400 bouts in the last 12 months. Critics say that number - the equivalent of more than one “title” contest per day - is a clear example of quantity over quality, pointing to the ever-multiplying belts as mere revenue streams. WBA President Gilberto Mendoza, however, revealed that roughly 67% of the sanctioning body’s total revenue - around $4 million - comes from these fees, helping them nearly double their 2023 figure to $6.08 million.
Part of this windfall stems from the WBA’s close relationship with Saudi Arabia, whose generous sponsorships and lucrative purses bolster sanctioning fees. Mendoza mentioned that this partnership with influential figures in Saudi Arabia must continue. Still, it raises questions about potential conflicts of interest: if the WBA relies on Saudi funding and mounting belts to stay afloat, how objective can its governance truly be?
The WBA argues its fees fund medical research, officiating education, and charitable efforts, touting these initiatives as proof they’re giving back to the sport. But critics highlight the ranking system: fighters or promoters can directly lobby for title opportunities and better rankings, which often hinge on whether they fight for WBA-affiliated belts (and thus pay fees). Mendoza admits the ranking process needs reform, but for now, more belts and more fights seem likely to remain the WBA’s profitable cornerstone.
Image Credit: WBA