Imane Khelif Announces Professional Boxing Career After Winning Gold at Paris Olympics

Photo: Imane Khelif (Instagram)

Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, has shared exciting news: she’s turning professional after winning a gold medal at the Paris Olympics. Despite facing criticism and false claims about her gender, Khelif is moving forward with her career.

The 25-year-old boxer won the gold after a controversial start at the Olympics, where her opponent, Italy’s Angela Carini, withdrew from their match in just 46 seconds due to Khelif’s strength. This led to unproven rumors about her gender, which spread quickly on social media. Public figures like JK Rowling and Donald Trump even joined the debate. Khelif called these attacks "cruel" and has since sued Elon Musk's platform, X, after it amplified some of the claims.

Khelif, speaking on Sunday, said she plans to enter the world of professional boxing. “I want to share my story with the media and young women who look up to me,” she said. She also mentioned that a documentary about her journey is in the works and will be shown globally. Although she hasn’t decided where she’ll start her professional career, Khelif emphasized that she is receiving many offers.

Photo: Imane Khelif (Instagram)

There were recent reports claiming Khelif had been stripped of her gold medal, but these were denied by the World Boxing Organization (WBO). The organization’s lawyer, Gustavo Olivier, confirmed that Khelif had not been tested or banned.

Prominent boxing promoter Eddie Hearn also showed interest in Khelif, suggesting he would offer her a contract if the facts supported her eligibility. He highlighted her talent and growing popularity, noting her social media following has surged since the Olympics.

Khelif’s future in professional boxing looks promising, despite the challenges she’s faced. Source: GBN


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