I've asked a few boxing fans about this and haven't heard a straight answer, so I'll take it to the group:

Is there a rule that prevents pro boxers from entering the Olympics?

I understand the reasons why a pro boxers wouldn't want to fight in the Olympics. The styles/mindsets are too different, it's too risky from a money/health/reputation standpoint, etc. So I'm not saying it should or would ever happen.

But if somebody like, say, Bernard Hopkins or Sergio Martinez thought, "You know what? I've done everything I've set out to do in my career, but I don't have an Olympic gold medal" -- is there a rule saying they can't go out for the Olympic team? Is there an age limit or anything? I figure if pro athletes in sports like basketball, tennis, track, etc., can compete in the Olympics, wouldn't boxers have the same option?