Posted by Sabrina B. @gametimegirl

The International boxing association wants to change Olympic eligibility rules and allow professional fighters to compete at the 2016 Rio Games.

AIBA President Wu Ching-Kuo says it aims to launch and market a global professional program in 2013.

Wu says pro boxers could join in the first year and regain Olympic eligibility. He also says better financial prospects and potential Olympic medals would help “enlightening the lives and dreams of many boxers.”

AIBA relaxed strict rules last year by creating the 12-city World Series Boxing competition, which paid amateur fighters.

AIBA’s plans could clash with world-title sanctioning bodies including the WBC and WBA.

-AP