Controversy Surrounds Disqualification of Algerian Boxer

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif was disqualified from the International Boxing Association's world championships, triggering a deeper controversy about gender regulations and governance in sports. The situation has put a spotlight on the IBA's troubled history and its ongoing conflicts with the International Olympic Committee.

Nearly 17 months ago in New Delhi, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif was disqualified just three days after defeating Russian prospect Azalia Amineva in the International Boxing Association's (IBA) world championships. The disqualification reinstated Amineva's perfect record.

The IBA claimed that Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting failed to meet unspecified eligibility criteria, igniting debates about gender regulations in sports as they both compete at the Paris Olympics. The timing of the IBA's decision raised suspicion, especially within a Russian-dominated governing body that was banned from the Olympics last year.

IOC spokesman Mark Adams called the IBA's decision 'contrary to good governance,' describing it as 'politically motivated.' Nearly three dozen nations have left the IBA to form World Boxing in an attempt to keep boxing in the 2028 Olympics. Despite these efforts, the IBA continues its battle with the IOC, stoking wider outcries and making controversial allegations about the gender of both fighters.

(With inputs from agencies.)