By Yuri Tarantin
Former four division world champion Roy Jones Jr. disagrees with the 2013 format change by the Amateur International Boxing Association, which for the first time will allow professional fighters to compete in the Olympic games - starting with the 2016 Olympics.
On March 23, 2013, the AIBA instituted significant changes to the sporting format - including the ability for pro boxers to be eligible to compete in men's Olympic boxing. Other changes included the elimination of headgear and the instant 10-point pro-style scoring system.
Jones says the AIBA's decision to allow pros to compete in the Olympics is a recipe for disaster.
He feels the scenario will create significant mismatches between seasoned pros and young amateurs who lack the necessary skill and experience.
"I don't think this is a good idea. After all, the road to the Olympics is for the young. As a teenager, I wanted to represent my country at the Olympics. When I moved to professional boxing, it became my job. Everything comes in good time. Imagine your 19-year-old son gets sent to the Olympic games, and now he has to fight Wladimir Klitschko. My honest opinion, no [it shouldn't happen]," Jones said.
Yuri Tarantin covers boxing for Allboxing.ru.
