The International Mr Leather organization is proud to officially announce that beginning in 2026, International Mr. Leather Weekend will once again include the International Mr. Bootblack contest. Going forward, IMBB will be an integral part of the IML weekend in conjunction with a reimagined Open Shine. Moving forward, International Mr Bootblack and International Mr Leather will serve together as partners in representing this organization.

The International Mr. Bootblack title has always celebrated the heart and soul of the Bootblack. We've made great progress toward bringing you a Bootblack contest focused on centering our Bootblacks and showcasing their skills as they step into the spotlight with their IML brothers and, while we're not ready to reveal every detail, we're incredibly pleased to share that the International Mr Bootblack Competition will be open to any person who is at least 21 years old and is ready and willing to wear their International Mr. Bootblack insignia with pride.