ORGANIZZAZIONE PUGILISTICA ITALIANA
.png)
45 YEARS OF ITALIAN BOXING HISTORY
THE ORIGINS
The Italian Boxing Organization (OPI) was founded in 1982 by three individuals deeply connected to the world of sports: Umberto Branchini, Giovanni Branchini, and Salvatore Cherchi.
Umberto Branchini, one of the most important managers and promoters in the history of Italian and international boxing and the only Italian inducted into the prestigious International Boxing Hall of Fame, brought to OPI a managerial and international vision that was still relatively undeveloped in the Italian boxing scene at the time.
At his side was his son, Giovanni Branchini, who took his first steps in boxing by following in his father’s footsteps before establishing himself as one of Europe’s most renowned sports agents in soccer.
Rounding out the project was Salvatore Cherchi, who became involved in boxing at a very young age and was destined to become one of the central figures in the history of OPI and Italian professional boxing.
Three founders, one goal: to create pathways, opportunities, and major events for athletes, propelling Italian boxing toward an increasingly international stage.
Umberto Branchini - founding member Opi since 82
From left:
Christian Cherchi, Salvatore Cherchi and Alessandro Cherchi.
THE COMPANY TODAY: A FAMILY STORY
Over the course of more than forty years, OPI has navigated the profound transformations in boxing and the sports market, gradually expanding its scope of operations.
In addition to promotion, the company has expanded into athlete management and development, matchmaking, event production, communications, broadcasting, and the establishment of national and international partnerships.
Today, OPI Since 82 is led by Salvatore Cherchi alongside his sons Christian and Alessandro, on a journey that directly links the company’s history to its new generation.
A legacy built on experience, relationships, knowledge of boxing, and the ability to assess athletes’ career paths—a legacy that passes from one generation to the next and is enriched by new skills and perspectives.
The Cherchi family thus continues to be at the heart of the OPI project, bringing to the present day the expertise they have gained in the field and a vision focused on a boxing world that is increasingly international, high-profile, and competitive.
NOT JUST MATCHES
People, expertise, and relationships dedicated to serving our athletes.
ATHLETE MANAGEMENT
We support every boxer in building and managing their professional career—from choosing sporting opportunities and managing fights to developing their public image and professional profile.
EVENT EXECUTION
& PROMOTION
We conceptualize and produce boxing events designed to showcase athletes, brands, and partners. We handle the creation of the fight card, the production and management of the event, and also develop its promotion and visibility.
SPONSORSHIP
We develop commercial partnerships that create shared value among athletes, events, and brands. We identify opportunities for collaboration and create activations that allow partners to engage with the world of boxing in an authentic and strategic way.
MATCHMAKING
We develop a competitive path for each athlete that aligns with their skill level and career goals. From selecting opponents to scheduling matches, all the way to strategically managing their journey toward titles and new opportunities.
MEDIA & BROADCASTING
We build communication strategies for athletes and events through contents, media relations, and audiovisual distribution. We develop a consistent and recognizable media presence, highlighting stories, key figures, and pivotal moments in boxing.
INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
We have built a network of relationships with promoters, federations, broadcasters, and boxing professionals in Italy and abroad. This international network allows us to create new opportunities in the sport, foster collaborations, and bring athletes and events to new markets.
Get in Touch
For information, partnerships, project proposals, or press inquiries, please fill out the form on the right. We look forward to receiving your inquiry and exploring new opportunities for collaboration.
