The controversial defeat of Abbes Aziz Mouhiidine by Uzbek boxer Lazizbek Mullojonov at Paris 2024 Olympic Games has sparked an uproar in the Italian boxing community. Flavio D’Ambrosi, president of the Italian Boxing Federation (FPI), has sharply criticized the 1-4 decision, arguing that it does not accurately reflect the match’s dynamics. This incident has brought renewed scrutiny to the governance of boxing and international competitions.
The match between Mouhiidine and Mullojonov was eagerly anticipated. Despite strong support and high expectations, Mouhiidine accepted a verdict that left many perplexed, including the FPI. According to eyewitnesses and match analysis, Mouhiidine demonstrated excellent control and technique, likely deserving a better score. This inconsistency has reignited concerns about refereeing standards.
THE IOC POSITION…
D’Ambrosi’s frustration is clear, especially regarding the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) role in preventing such questionable decisions. He argues that the IOC should do more to protect athletes from injustices, highlighting that these issues have persisted despite past scandals.
President D’Ambrosi has warned that such incidents could have severe consequences for Italian boxing. His comments reflect concerns that these injustices could derail the careers of individual athletes and hinder the sport’s progress in Italy. He worries that some might exploit these controversies to disrupt national advancements.
Abbes Aziz Mouhiidine. (FederPugilistica)
D’Ambrosi’s call to action emphasizes the need for greater responsibility and support for Italian boxers. He argues that questionable decisions undermine the sport’s integrity. The widespread condemnation of this incident could spark discussions on improving refereeing and judging processes.
D’Ambrosi’s remarks also reveal his personal struggle with the current state of boxing governance. He expressed uncertainty about his future as FPI president, citing an increasingly challenging work environment. “I don’t know if I will run again,” he confessed, reflecting his frustration with a system resistant to meaningful change.
His words reveal a leader disheartened by a lack of institutional support and the burden of dealing with issues beyond his control. Despite these challenges, D’Ambrosi remains committed to supporting the remaining Italian competitors, underscoring his dedication to the athletes’ well-being.
STATEMENT BY PRESIDENT D’AMBROSI
“Shame on you. Once again, Italy has been robbed. We thought that the IOC would protect boxers and avoid the atrocities of the past. Nothing. It’s the same old story. The match dominated by Abbes and lost with an unfortunate verdict shows that nothing has changed.
This leads me to seriously reflect on my further permanence in this world that I have loved and that I love beyond the miserable positions of power that some yearn for. Unfortunately, the jackals, even the older ones, will take advantage of this obvious injustice and will also stop the change that boxing was slowly undergoing at a national level.
Il punto del Presidente Flavio D’Ambrosi
Corsi di aggiornamento gratuito per i dirigenti di società.
In attesa del primo luglio p.v. – data di entrata in vigore della riforma dello sport – la Fpi ha programmato dei corsi di aggiornamento riservati ai dirigenti societari.… pic.twitter.com/JAmw9VdgbI
— FederPugilistica (@FPIBoxe) June 3, 2023
I am the President and I must answer for the failures even when they are not directly attributable to me. I do not know, therefore, if I will run again. I do not know if I will find the strength.
In the meantime, I hope that the Italian boxers still competing do not suffer the same outrage as Abbes. With love for the entire Italian boxing movement.”
