The International Boxing Association decided to allow professional boxers to compete in all world events such as the Olympics in a so-called Extraordinary Congress convened on Wednesday in Lausanne, Switzerland. This decision was taken after an overwhelming majority of 95% of its delegates voted for the move.

"This is a momentous occasion for AIBA, for Olympic Boxing, and for our sport as a whole, and represents another great leap forward in the evolution of boxing ," said Ching-Kuo Wu, the president of the AIBA, in a statement released by the organisation. "This move will ensure the empowerment of National Federations and enhance all future competitions including the Olympic Games."

Only amateur boxers were allowed to compete at global events earlier. In the case of India, Olympic bronze medallist Vijender Singh, who recently turned professional, could also theoretically compete at the upcoming Rio Olympics. However, a number of other high-profile boxers have criticised the decision.