Overview

The Joint Association of Boxers (J.A.B.) is a union for the physical and financial protection of professional boxers, run by boxers and former boxers, all of whom will be elected by boxers.  The first meeting of J.A.B. took place on May 12, 2003 in Las Vegas, NV.  Boxers in attendance signed union cards authorizing J.A.B. to act as their collective bargaining representative.  Also at the meeting, boxers voted to seek to affiliation with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT).  The Teamsters will give initial financial support and organizing expertise until J.A.B. is able to fully support itself. 

Since the meeting, J.A.B. has signed up numerous other fighters including the likes of David Tua, Derrick "Smoke" Gainer, and Wayne Braithwaite.  J.A.B is encouraging all fighters to sign up.  By signing a card, fighters are only stating that they want to be involved in an organization to benefit boxers.  They are in no way obligated to remain in the union and can revoke their membership at any time.   

Leadership

J.A.B. was founded by former World Light Heavyweight Champion Eddie Mustafa Muhammad.  In addition, J.A.B.'s regional representatives are:  Al Cole, Gary Balletto, Max Heyman, and Genaro Hernandez. 

Goals

• Protect the rights of boxers and ensure full disclosure of finances under the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act
• Ensure the highest possible safety standards at all matches
• Create health and pension benefit plans for boxers
• Create a minimum salary scale
• Ensure fair distribution of fight proceeds between boxers and promoters
• Assist boxers in their transition from boxing to other jobs upon retirement.

Reasons for Unionization

Professional boxing is the last major sport without a union.  Players in the NBA, NFL, NHL, and Major League Baseball have long benefited from collective bargaining.  Professional boxers, however, continue to lag behind other professional athletes.  Boxers and retired boxers have no health care, pension, or other benefits essential for living.    

Support

J.A.B. is seeking support from various types of groups including:

Boxers, Retired Boxers, Boxing Industry Professionals, Boxing, Promoters, Professional Athletes, Players Associations, Entertainers, Other Entertainment Unions (SAG, AFTRA), Politicians, Media, and Other Opinion Makers.  Anyone wishing to give support please contact J.A.B.  We are actively seeking letters of endorsement as well as other support.

Contact

Joint Association of Boxers

P.O. Box 2662

New York, NY 10108

boxersunion@yahoo.com

(212) 730-7650
 

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