Okay, so, the other day I was watching a boxing match, and I started wondering about those shiny belts they give out. You know, “how do the boxing belts work?” It is not a easy thing, I mean, it took me a while to figure it all out. It was like a puzzle.
I started by just watching more matches and paying attention to the commentators. They kept mentioning these organizations like WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO. So I hit up the internet and started reading. Turns out, these are the big names in boxing, like the major leagues.
Then I found out that each of these groups has its own champion for different weight classes. It’s not just one belt for everyone; it is divided by how much the boxers weigh. I dug a bit deeper and realized there are like 17 weight classes! And then there is this fifth belt from The Ring, which is kind of its own thing, not really connected to the other four, it is an independent organization.
So, how do you get one of these belts? From what I gathered, a boxer has to be the champion and then fight a challenger. If the challenger wins, they get the belt. But it’s not just any fight; one of these big organizations has to “sanction” it, which is like giving it the official stamp. The WBC came into existence one year after the WBA in 1963. The WBC has held some of the most high profile fights in the history of boxing.
I also learned that the WBC belt is seen as a big deal, many boxers regard it as the most prestigious heavyweight belt in the sport. A lot of famous fights have been for that one. It felt like I was unlocking a secret world or something.
Here is what I learned that day:
- There are five major belts in professional boxing.
- Four main organizations give out belts: WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO.
- The Ring also gives out a belt, but it is separate from the other four.
- Boxers win belts by being champions and beating challengers in sanctioned fights.
It was a lot to take in, but I finally got it. Those belts are a big deal, and there is a whole system behind them. It’s not just about winning a fight; it is about being the best in your weight class according to these major boxing organizations.
What a interesting day!
And that is what I learned about boxing belts. It was a real eye-opener, I am not gonna lie. Now, when I watch a match, I actually understand what is going on with those belts.
