Frampton has relinquished his IBF super-bantamweight title

Olympic professional boxing vote is criticised

Former world champion Carl Frampton and a number of other high-profile fighters have criticised the decision to allow professionals to box at the Olympics.

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The International Boxing Association (AIBA) voted for the rule change before the Rio Games, which start on 5 August.

Northern Irishman Frampton said amateur and pro boxing were "two different sports".

The British Boxing Board of Control called on AIBA to "reconsider" its decision, saying it was "dangerous".

In a statement it said: "It is against the spirit of the Olympics, disrespectful to the many GB amateur boxers who, throughout the Olympic cycle compete around the world in qualifying tournaments."

Newly-crowned WBC world cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew also said the move was "dangerous".

He told BBC Radio 5 live: "To fight a guy with no professional experience is insane. I just can't see what there is to be gained. It's wrong to even suggest it, never mind put it in place."

The 33-year-old added that the Olympic event would be "tarnished" if a pro boxer won it.

"It wouldn't really be an Olympic gold medal," said Bellew.

"A professional winning an Olympic medal is wrong on so many levels. No-one in boxing in my opinion would take them seriously if they won the gold medal."

Credit: BBC

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