Recent claims circulating on the internet suggest that Algerian boxer Imane Khelif was banned for life by the World Boxing Organization (WBO) after being recognized as a man. According to these rumors, Khelif was stripped of all his medals and lost $25 million in prize money. However, verified sources confirm that these claims are false, and no official boxing federation has imposed such a sanction on him.
The truth behind the accusations
Imane Khelif made headlines after winning gold in the women’s middleweight division at the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, her participation is under scrutiny due to previous disqualifications at international boxing events. In 2023, the International Boxing Association (IBA) disqualified her from the Women’s World Boxing Championship after she reportedly failed a sex chromosome test. The sudden decision sparked controversy, with many questioning the fairness and transparency of the IBA’s guidelines.
Despite the setback, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) did not ban Khelif and allowed her to participate in the Olympics. The IOC criticized the IBA’s decision as “sudden and arbitrary” and argued that due process had not been followed. As a result, Khelif was able to win in Paris and cement her place among the world’s best female boxers.
Demystifying the ban and loss of prize money
Although many sources claim that Khelif was banned for life and lost millions in prize money, there is no evidence to support these claims. The WBO, a professional boxing organization, does not regulate Olympic or amateur boxing. Therefore, it has no authority to strip Khelif of any medals or impose a lifetime ban on him from practicing his profession.
What’s more, reports that he lost $25 million in prize money appear to be completely fabricated. There are no financial rewards of this magnitude in Olympic boxing, and there is no official record of Khelif receiving or losing such a sum.
Khelif’s answer and future is not boxing.
Neither Imane Khelif nor her representatives have commented publicly on the recent allegations. However, her coach dismissed the rumors as unfounded and emphasized that Khelif remains focused on her career.
To this day, Khelif is considered a gold medalist and a rising star in the world of boxing. While issues of eligibility and gender regulations in sports continue to be debated, there is no official regulation regarding her status as a champion.
Diploma
Despite the controversy and misinformation, Imane Khelif remains a celebrated athlete. Claims of a lifetime ban and financial losses are not supported by any credible boxing authority. Until official bodies confirm the disciplinary measures, Khelif’s successes as a boxer will remain.
For accurate sports news, always rely on reliable sources, not viral claims on social media.
