Sanctioning fees in boxing are charges imposed by governing bodies (like the WBC, IBF, WBO, and smaller organizations) on promoters or fighters for officially recognizing and overseeing title fights, typically as a percentage of the purse or a flat amount.

Purpose and Structure

These fees cover costs like belts, supervisors, referees, judges, and sometimes medical funds for retired boxers. They vary by organization, title level (world, regional, intercontinental), weight class, and fight type, often excluding travel or lodging. For major bodies, percentages range from 2-3% of the purse per belt, capped in some cases like the WBC at $300,000.

Fee Examples

Different organizations set distinct rates:

Organization| World Title Fee Example| Other Titles Example
---|---|---
NBA| $2,000 (heavyweight) 1| $1,500 (others) 1
IBA| $3,000-$5,000 + $1,000 belt 3| $2,500 (Intercontinental) 3
UBO/UBF| $3,000-$3,500 incl. belt 59| $1,500-$2,000 regional 9

Critics like Floyd Mayweather and Andre Ward argue these multiply with multiple belts, taking significant cuts from fighters' earnings.