Japan Amateur Boxing Federation President Akira Yamane announced his resignation Wednesday following multiple allegations of misconduct, including pressuring referees to fix matches and misuse of grant money.
Yamane, 78, has denied several allegations against him, but acknowledged his relationship with a former gang leader, prompting Japan Sports Agency chief Daichi Suzuki and others to call for him to step down.
"Today, I tender my resignation. As president of the federation, I apologize to the athletes that such a problem has occurred. I am very sorry," Yamane said at a news conference.