Oldest major pro boxing sanctioning body
Former two-division world boxing champion Zolani "Last Born" Tete has been shot dead outside his home in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. Police have arrested four suspects aged 22–28; a 22-year-old has been charged with murder and attempted murder. A 27-year-old woman who was with Tete has been hospitalized with gunshot wounds.
Teofimo Lopez has regained a world title at 147lb with a unanimous decision over Romero, controlled the bout with his jab and movement, and is now eyeing a unification or a fight across the pond. The win secures his 23rd victory in 25 fights.
Usyk has vacated the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight belts to allow contenders to fight for them, a move that opens the division and sets the stage for new champions. Kabayel has become WBC champion, while Gassiev is poised to inherit the WBA title; IBF actions point toward Frank Sanchez or Moses Itauma as next contenders. The sport faces a reshuffle as Usyk pivots toward a final, high-stakes bout.
The WTA has updated its women’s eligibility policy to require a one-time SRY gene test to determine biological sex. The policy, effective 2026, aligns with IOC standards and follows similar measures by World Athletics and World Boxing. No transgender players are known to compete on the WTA Tour.
The IOC has provisionally lifted the suspension of the Russian Olympic Committee, enabling athletes to compete internationally as various federations reinstate Russian participation. Ukraine challenges the move at CAS, arguing it violates the Olympic Charter and territorial integrity. Multiple sports have begun readmitting Russian and Belarusian athletes with flags and symbols permitted in some events.
Uganda’s Aziz Abdul has been disqualified in the Glasgow boxing event after a third-round headbutt on Damar Thomas, drawing accusations of national bias. Officials maintain a fair playing field as African nations secure multiple medals; coverage is split between broadcasters.
Tuvaluan boxer Tarona Taafaki has secured a Commonwealth bronze after a semi-final bye and a loss to Lovlina Borgohain. The coach says the medal highlights Tuvalu on the world stage and the climate emergency threatening the island nation, where training has often taken place on an airport runway.
Cris Cyborg has secured a points win against Ketlen Vieira in Tampa, signaling she is considering continuing her MMA career after a long, decorated run. Vieira missed weight initially, creating a late catchweight arrangement. Cyborg’s post-fight comments hint at further clashes, possibly with Claressa Shields or Kayla Harrison, as she pursues more challenges.