BBBofC LICENSED
British Boxing Board of Control - the professional boxing authority
What is the BBBofC?
The British Boxing Board of Control is the sole governing body for professional boxing in the United Kingdom. Established in 1929, it regulates every aspect of professional boxing - from licensing boxers, trainers, and promoters to setting medical requirements and overseeing official contests.
The Board's primary concern is the safety of boxers. It mandates pre-fight medicals, ensures ringside medical cover at all events, and maintains records that track a boxer's competitive history and medical status throughout their career.
Why does a community gym hold a BBBofC licence?
Most boxing gyms operate purely on the amateur side. Holding a BBBofC licence alongside England Boxing affiliation is unusual - it means Honour & Glory can support boxers across the full spectrum, from complete beginners through amateur competition and, for those who choose it, into the professional ranks.
In practice, this means our coaching staff includes BBBofC licensed trainers who understand the demands of professional boxing. They bring that level of technical rigour to every session, whether you are training for fitness or preparing for a fight.
What BBBofC licensing requires
- Licensed trainers - coaches must pass BBBofC assessments and maintain their licence through ongoing evaluation
- Medical oversight - strict medical protocols for anyone involved in professional bouts, including annual medicals and brain scans
- Record keeping - all professional bout records maintained centrally by the Board
- Safety standards - venue requirements, equipment standards, and emergency procedures that exceed amateur requirements
- Insurance - comprehensive cover for all licensed participants
The professional pathway
For the small number of boxers who want to turn professional, having a BBBofC licensed gym removes a significant barrier. The transition from amateur to professional boxing is substantial - different rules, longer rounds, no headguards - and having coaches who operate at both levels makes that transition safer and more structured.
That said, the vast majority of our members train for fitness, confidence, and enjoyment. The BBBofC licence is not about pushing people towards professional boxing - it is about having the expertise and standards that come with operating at that level, available to everyone who walks through the door.