In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has been disqualified from competing in the 2025 Women’s World Boxing Championship after a DNA test—allegedly pushed for by tech mogul Elon Musk—revealed that she carries XY chromosomes.
The International Boxing Association (IBA) announced the ban late Friday, stating that after a controversial genetic test, Khelif was found to have “a chromosomal advantage inconsistent with eligibility for the women’s division.”
The situation exploded after Elon Musk publicly questioned Khelif’s eligibility on X (formerly Twitter), where he posted:
“Shouldn’t we be protecting fairness in women’s sports? XY chromosomes = biological male. This isn’t rocket science.”
Musk then reportedly called on the IBA to conduct genetic testing on all top contenders. Days later, Khelif’s results became public—and the backlash was instant.
The Test That Changed Everything
Sources inside the IBA confirm that the DNA test revealed Khelif has XY chromosomes, a marker typically associated with biological males. Though Khelif has lived and identified as a woman for years, IBA stated that its rules on “biological eligibility” overruled gender identity in this instance.
“We respect all athletes,” the IBA said in a statement, “but we also have a responsibility to preserve competitive integrity. Based on medical findings, Imane Khelif is not eligible to compete in the women’s division.”
Public Outrage and Global Reaction
The ban has triggered an international storm. Supporters of Khelif argue the decision is discriminatory and humiliating, accusing Musk of using his influence to play “genetic police.”
LGBTQ+ organizations have condemned the move as a violation of human rights, while others—including several prominent women boxers—have applauded the IBA’s decision.
American boxer Danielle Ortiz (fictional name) said:
“We’re not trying to exclude anyone, but fairness matters. This isn’t about hate—it’s about the sport.”
On the flip side, trans rights activist Leo Martinez fired back online:
“What’s next? Elon decides who’s female enough to compete? This is not just science—it’s political theater.”
Khelif Breaks Her Silence
So far, Imane Khelif has not issued a formal statement, but sources close to her say she is “devastated” and considering legal action.
A brief message posted to her Instagram story read:
“I am a woman. I am a fighter. And I will not be erased.”
The Future of Women’s Boxing?
This case has opened the floodgates for renewed debate around gender, chromosomes, and athletic eligibility. With Musk now becoming an unexpected figure in the sports world’s identity politics, the IBA’s next move—and Khelif’s response—could set a precedent for the future of all women’s sports.
One thing’s for sure: the fight has only just begun
