An official decision has been announced regarding one of the most widely debated bouts at the IBA World Championship, held from December 2 to 13 in Dubai. The alleged "ear-biting" incident during the men's 60 kg final between Abdumalik Kholokov and Vsevolod Shumkov underwent a thorough investigation but did not result in any changes to the match outcome.
It was reported that a special analysis of the incident was conducted by field experts. The referee officiating the bout in real time maintained full control of the situation and deemed it not severe enough to intervene in the fight. Subsequent video reviews confirmed that the match proceeded correctly and without interruptions. Importantly, Kholokov sustained no injuries and continued the fight actively, without raising any objections.
The International Boxing Association (IBA), in its official statement, emphasized that while such actions are considered a violation of the rules, each case is evaluated in real time based on its intent, severity, and impact on the bout. In this instance, the referee panel made their assessment, and the championship's technical delegate approved the final decision. Moreover, it was noted that the Uzbekistan delegation did not file any appeals during the competition. Therefore, there is no legal basis to alter the result or amend the medal distribution.
However, to ensure full transparency and uphold the principles of fairness in sport, it was announced that this episode will also be reviewed by the Independent Boxing Integrity Unit (BIIU), an independent anti-corruption body in boxing. Should the action be judged as a rule violation, the athlete may face financial penalties.
IBA Secretary General and Executive Director Chris Roberts commented on the matter as follows:
"Integrity in our competitions is our highest priority. Therefore, we reviewed the episode with independent experts and reached a final decision confirmed by the technical delegate. Since the deadline to amend the result has passed, the matter has been referred to the BIIU, with recommendations to apply financial measures where necessary. Regardless of the outcome, the interests of the athletes remain our top priority."
It should be reminded that the controversial incident occurred approximately 50 seconds before the end of the third round, during a clinch. During the brief clash, Shumkov's mouth made contact with Kholokov's ear, but this action was assessed as accidental and determined to have had no effect on the outcome of the fight.
As a result, the final decision was officially upheld, closing the main questions surrounding the championship.
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