AFFILIATIONs
We take pride in our longstanding connections with these vital affiliations.
ARCHES BOXING
The Arches boxing logo represents a symbol of commitment to the principles of sport and physical activity. Sport England, in partnership with various organisations and individuals, is dedicated to making sport and physical activity a regular and accessible part of life for everyone in England, regardless of background, gender, financial situation, or location.
Recognising existing disparities in access, this mission aims to break down barriers. Sport England's "Uniting the Movement" strategy for 2021-2031, a ten-year initiative, aspires to bring about transformative change that enhances the quality of life in every home and community throughout the nation.
Physical activity, as understood, goes beyond fitness. It encompasses mental well-being, fosters social and community development, drives economic growth, and promotes individual development. Engaging in physical activity can prevent or manage medical conditions, alleviate anxiety and stress, boost self-confidence, and promote social cohesion among individuals from diverse backgrounds.
As an arm's length government body, this organisation plays a pivotal role in promoting grassroots sport and expanding physical activity across England. Its journey, beginning with The Sports Council in 1972 and evolving into Sport England in 1999, has been sustained by funding from the National Lottery and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport.
Investments in various projects and programs underscore the central importance of movement, sport, and physical activity in people's lives. The Board, led by Chair Chris Boardman, oversees the organization, while the Executive Leadership Team, headed by Chief Executive Tim Hollingsworth, ensures daily operations run smoothly.
Data-driven campaigns, open funding programs, and dynamic partnerships with various organisations form the basis for creating tangible change and fostering a healthier, more active England. Explore campaigns, funding opportunities, and strategic initiatives to gain deeper insights into this impactful work.
REFERENCE: (2023) 'About us', Sports England, https://www.sportengland.org/about-us
BBBC
Established in 1929 as the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC), this organisation has played a pivotal role in shaping British professional boxing. Initially, the BBBC primarily focused on procedural aspects, such as Championship recognition. However, in recent decades, a significant shift has occurred, with a strong emphasis on enhancing medical safety standards within British boxing, becoming a core part of the BBBC's mission.
Today, the BBBC's extensive responsibilities encompass oversight of arbitration and disciplinary procedures, continuous updates of Rules and Regulations, the appointment of Referees and Timekeepers, licensing of individuals in the sport, and representation of British boxing interests on the global stage.
Since its incorporation as a Limited Liability Company in 1989, the BBBC oversees approximately 2,500 license holders, with roughly 1,100 active boxers, primarily operating as semi-professionals. Full-time professional boxers are a minority, with most participating in only a few matches each year—a trend that has grown over the past three decades.
Comparing the careers of boxers like Tommy Farr and Lennox Lewis highlights this shift. Farr had 104 contests over 18 years (mainly between 1926 and 1940), while Lewis participated in only 44 contests over 14 years as a professional (between 1989 and 2003). The BBBC has adapted to these changes by prioritizing medical controls and safety measures.
Recognising the inherent physical hazards in professional boxing, the BBBC established a robust system of medical safety checks and balances through its Medical Committee in 1950. This system blends formal protocols with informal communication within the close-knit boxing community.
The BBBC serves as a linchpin within this network of safeguards, a role occasionally misunderstood by outsiders. Nonetheless, its vital contribution to ensuring the safety and integrity of British professional boxing cannot be overstated. Collaborating with officials, stakeholders, and passionate fans worldwide, the BBBC's unwavering commitment to professionalism and integrity continues to shape the future of martial arts and combat sports.
REFERENCE: (2023) 'About us', British Board of Boxing Control, https://bbbofc.com/about-us
UWCB
Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) emerged on the boxing scene in 2009, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the sport. The concept of white collar boxing, originating in New York in 1988 when a doctor and an attorney prepared for a friendly bout at a black-tie event, had already gained traction as a novel way for professionals to engage in boxing. The term 'white collar' signified the participation of business professionals, but over the years, it has transcended boundaries, making white collar boxing one of the fastest-growing contact sports globally.
UWCB played a pivotal role in this transformation by hosting its inaugural event in Derby in 2009. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that saw an explosion of white collar boxing events across the United Kingdom. Today, UWCB has organised events in over 100 towns and cities in the UK, offering a platform for people from all walks of life to experience the thrill of boxing.
What sets UWCB apart is its commitment to making boxing accessible and enjoyable for a diverse range of participants. It has expanded its reach beyond the UK, with events held in Australia and Canada, and has ambitious plans to further extend its presence to the United States.
UWCB's remarkable growth underscores the universal appeal of boxing and its power to bring communities together. By providing a safe and supportive environment for participants to train and compete, UWCB continues to play a significant role in the ever-expanding world of white collar boxing, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to experience the exhilaration of this challenging and rewarding sport.
REFERENCE: (2023) 'About us', Ultra White Collar Boxing, https://ultrawhitecollarboxing.co.uk/
UBF
The Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) was established with a primary mission: to uphold the integrity of the sport often referred to as the "sweet science." Distinguished from many other sanctioning bodies, the UBF stands out by its unwavering commitment to preserving the traditions of boxing. It achieves this by exclusively sanctioning bouts that feature credible fighters, maintaining a focus on showcasing the skills and dedication of worthy athletes.
At the core of the UBF's ethos are fundamental principles deeply rooted in ethics, morality, loyalty, honesty, and good faith. These values serve as the guiding pillars for all legitimate activities within the Universal Boxing Federation. With a dedication to promoting fairness, sportsmanship, and the essence of the noble art of boxing, the UBF remains steadfast in its mission to honor the sport's rich heritage while ensuring that only the most deserving contenders step into the ring.
REFERENCE: (2023) 'Home Of Champions', Universal Boxing Federation , https://www.ubfboxing.com/