IBF China connects with LeSports to boost boxing development

LeSports, which is operated by Chinese internet company LeEco, has struck a multi-faceted partnership with the IBF China division of the International Boxing Federation.

Under the agreement, LeSports will have the right to live webcasting of all IBF China professional boxing tournament bouts over the next five years, while Rejoy Group, promoter of IBF China fights, will be responsible for the promotion of the brand and the operation of the events.

Through establishing China's first professional boxing tournaments, IBF China aims to promote professional boxing in China, enhance the foundations of the sport in the country, and propel Chinese boxing onto the world stage.

IBF China held more than 30 tournaments last year in several cities including Beijing, Xi'an, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Hangzhou and Jinan and has more than 300 registered boxers.

Liu Jianhong, chief commercial officer of LeSports, said the company will seek to develop a pay-per-view broadcast model with IBF China for its events.

Wu Di, deputy president of Rejoy Group, added: “As the showpiece event of 2016, the IBF world championship bout will be broadcast live by CCTV5 and LeSports, after which 2016 IBF China professional boxing tournaments will be officially launched. We plan to promote 100 fights in six cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Zhenzhou and Sanya.”