Seeding will be in operation in the Olympics for the first time at London 2012.

The AIBA have confirmed that seeding will replace an open draw policy and will be based on the AIBA’s own World rankings.

The top six ranked male boxers in each division and the top two boxers in the women’s category will be seeded.

It could prove good news for number one seed Katie Taylor, number four seed John Joe Nevin and number three seed Darren O’Neill. Michael Conlan is seeded 14 and Paddy Barnes just outside the top six at seven. Adam Nolan has yet to be given a ranking but could appear in the new rankings soon to be published.