63 Years of Glory: The WBC Celebrates More Than Six Decades Transforming the Sport

This February 14, the World Boxing Council (WBC) celebrates 63 years of existence. Since its founding in 1963, the organization has evolved from a vision of unity into an influential and respected governing force in world boxing.

The WBC was born from the initiative of the then President of Mexico, Adolfo López Mateos, with the goal of unifying the world’s boxing commissions and regulating the sport’s expansion. On that February 14, 1963, 11 founding nations—the United States, Argentina, England, France, Mexico, the Philippines, Panama, Chile, Peru, Venezuela, and Brazil—gave life to this dream. Figures such as Mexicans Luis Spota and Professor Ramón G. Velásquez, along with Onslow Fane (England) and Justiniano Montaño (Philippines), were the pillars who built the foundation of this giant.

While six presidents have led the organization, it was Don José Sulaimán Chagnón who consolidated the WBC as the leading international organization. After assuming the presidency on December 5, 1975, in Tunisia, Don José dedicated more than 38 years to transforming the vision of boxing, always prioritizing the safety, health, and dignity of the fighter.
Today, under the leadership of Mauricio Sulaimán, the WBC remains an organization composed of 170 countries. The mission remains clear: to make boxing a fair and safe sport, promoting values of loyalty, justice, and integrity above any commercial interest.

Throughout 63 years, the WBC has implemented revolutionary changes that are now industry standards:
– Reduction of championship fights from 15 to 12 rounds and the implementation of the official weigh-in 24 hours before the bout.

– Introduction of Instant Replay and the Open Scoring system at the end of the 4th and 8th rounds.

– Creation of the Medical Committee based at UCLA for scientific research and the launch of the Clean Boxing Program in collaboration with VADA for a doping-free sport.

– Creation of intermediate divisions to avoid extreme physical sacrifices, a historic boost for women’s boxing, and constant seminars for ring officials.

The WBC does not only shine in the arenas. Through WBC Cares, the organization brings hope to hospitals and schools, while the José Sulaimán Fund provides vital economic support to boxers and former boxers going through difficult times.

As we celebrate these 63 years, the World Boxing Council reaffirms its commitment to the athlete—be it man or woman—who enters the ring with a thirst for victory. Our history is their history, and our future will continue to be watching over their well-being.