Global boxing icons test IBA Boxing Game at landmark Golden Era event in Istanbul

At the heart of the IBA’s bold Golden Era press conference in Istanbul, the International Boxing Association (IBA) unveiled its latest international venture — the IBA Boxing Game. This cross-platform, multiplayer fighting game is set to redefine digital boxing and unite fans across continents in a single virtual ring.
The highlight of the launch was the IBA GAME CUBE, an immersive multimedia installation designed by top-tier game artists. Guests explored the IBA Boxing Game on mobile and desktop platforms and stepped into the future of the sport with the VR experience IBA Rhythm Boxing Game.
Adding to the event’s momentum were appearances by some of boxing’s biggest legends — Terence Crawford, Tyson Fury, Roy Jones Jr., and others — who didn’t just endorse the project, but tested it first-hand, stepping into the digital ring to experience the game’s potential for themselves.
Taking the main stage, the game’s creators Pavel Ilminov and Petr Chernov presented its core features and ambitious scope.
“IBA Boxing Game is more than just a simulation — it’s a full-fledged digital ecosystem. Every player embarks on a journey from rookie to professional champion, shaping their own fighting style, training, unlocking gear, and competing in global tournaments. It’s a world where boxing means more than punches — it’s about strategy, intelligence, and instinct,” said Petr Chernov.
“The game’s cross-platform accessibility, vertical controls, and intuitive yet deep gameplay make it suitable for everyone. Most importantly, it teaches you to think like a boxer. It’s not just about pure power — it’s about calculation, improvisation, and winning with your mind, as the real boxing is,” added Pavel Ilminov.
A standout feature of the game is its virtual mentor, played by IBA President Umar Kremlev himself. As players climb the ranks, the mentor shares motivational insights and stories of boxing greats such as Muhammad Ali, Roy Jones Jr., and Teófilo Stevenson — reinforcing the game’s educational and inspirational mission.
Also introduced was a special in-game mode, “IBA Pro: Champions’ Night”, inspired by real-world IBA.PRO events. This feature allows users to take part in exclusive tournaments, climb leaderboards, and earn valuable rewards — just like elite fighters on the world stage.

“IBA is more than a sports organization — it is a philosophy, a global platform where anyone — regardless of age, background, or status — can feel part of boxing’s great legacy. We are not only developing athletes; we are shaping character, building willpower, and teaching respect — both for oneself and for others. The IBA Boxing Game is our digital bridge to the next generation. It’s more than a game — it’s an invitation to embrace the values of boxing, where every fight is a journey of self-discovery, discipline, and mutual respect. In this virtual ring, there are no borders, no prejudice, no barriers. Here, victories are earned not through status, but through perseverance and spirit. Our mission is to make boxing truly accessible — and through this game, we offer something greater: a chance to change one’s life, believe in yourself, and rise as a champion — in sport and beyond,” emphasized IBA President Umar Kremlev.

The IBA Boxing Game launch in Istanbul marked more than a technological milestone — it was a symbolic leap into the ongoing Golden Era of Boxing, where the virtual ring becomes an extension of the real one, and the passion for the sport reaches every corner of the globe through immersive digital innovation.