German boxer Julia Igel is set to face Algerian Olympic champion Imane Khelif in a professional fight in Paris on April 23, with Igel stating she aims to “put out a statement” through the bout. However, the match has ignited controversy due to questions over Khelif’s eligibility in the female category, stemming from her admission of having the SRY gene, which is linked to male development.
In an interview with DW, Igel referred to Khelif as potentially “male,” asserting that “someone that might have something to do with the male gender shouldn’t be in women’s boxing.” She highlighted concerns over punching power and safety, arguing that Khelif’s genetic makeup—Khelif is not transgender and was assigned female at birth—grants an unfair and dangerous advantage. Critics have echoed these views, citing Khelif’s XY chromosomes and testosterone levels reported by the International Boxing Association.
Igel’s coach and manager, Ikram Kerwat, was more blunt, stating, “Ever since it came out that he has XY chromosomes, he has balls, he produces testosterone... yes, it’s a he.” Kerwat referenced the case of Italian boxer Angela Carini, who abandoned her Olympic fight against Khelif after 46 seconds, describing the punch as unprecedented. He suggested Khelif should compete against men, noting that several female boxers declined to fight her due to these concerns.
Despite the safety debates, Igel expressed no fear, emphasizing her skills and the opportunity to make a global statement. Khelif, who hasn’t fought since the Paris Olympics, was granted a professional license by the French Boxing Federation without mandatory sex testing, unlike World Boxing’s amateur events. In a February interview with L’Equipe, Khelif called her condition “natural,” claimed to have lowered her testosterone, and said she submitted medical records to World Boxing without response.
The fight marks a career highlight for Igel, who has a 5-2 professional record and is confident despite conceding height to Khelif. She believes public pressure is on Khelif, whom she says faces scrutiny from the boxing world. The bout underscores ongoing tensions in sports over gender, fairness, and safety, drawing international attention as both athletes prepare for a clash that transcends the ring.
Source: www.dw.com