STAVANGER, Norway (AP) — Incoming leaders of Norway’s new government say they will end a 32-year ban on professional boxing in the Scandinavian country when the right-wing coalition takes office next week.
Lawmakers from some opposition parties have said they also back the proposal, ensuring the necessary approval by Parliament.
The world’s No. 1-rated female boxer, unbeaten Norwegian fighter Cecilia Braekhus, told Norwegian broadcaster NRK on Thursday she was thrilled by the move.
However, pro boxing in Norway will contain restrictions, including a 12-minute maximum fight length and the compulsory use of protective headgear.
Braekhus, who has won all of her 23 fights, does not wear headgear and fights in her professional class last 20 minutes.
