World Boxing Enforces Mandatory Sex Testing, Olympic Champion Khelif Ineligible

World Boxing has introduced mandatory sex testing for all athletes over 18 wishing to compete in its events, aiming to ensure a competitive level playing field and the safety of all participants. The testing involves a PCR genetic test to detect the presence of the SRY gene, which indicates biological sex by identifying the Y chromosome, and can be conducted via nasal or mouth swabs, saliva, or blood samples. Olympic women's welterweight champion Imane Khelif has been barred from competing in the upcoming Eindhoven Box Cup and other World Boxing events until she undergoes this mandated genetic sex screening. This policy follows controversy around Khelif's eligibility, as she was disqualified from the 2023 World Championships for failing to meet gender eligibility criteria but was cleared for the 2024 Olympics. National federations are responsible for conducting the tests and certifying athletes' chromosomal sex when entering them into competitions under World Boxing's jurisdiction. The governing body, which will oversee boxing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, emphasizes that the immediate rule change was made to address evolving conditions and maintain fairness in the sport.