The opponent to next face Imane Khelif, the Boxer who failed gender tests at the previous year’s world championships, has spoken out in the lead up to the fight.
Much controversy has surrounded Khelif following her fight with Italy’s Angela Carini.
The Italian athlete left the ring after just 46 seconds, with a suspected broken nose, following a contentious match.
Khelif was banned from competing in a gold medal match in Delhi by the International Boxing Association after failing a testosterone level test but has been allowed to fight at the 2024 Olympics.
Prior to the match, the Algerian Olympic Committee defended their boxer, issuing a statement condemning the criticism she faced.
The Algerian Olympic Committee (COA) stated, “COA strongly condemns the unethical targeting and maligning of our esteemed athlete, Imane Khelif, with baseless propaganda from certain foreign media outlets. Such attacks on her personality and dignity are deeply unfair, especially as she prepares for the pinnacle of her career at the Olympics. The COA has taken all necessary measures to protect our champion.”
Carini has since spoken out on why she called the fight off early. Talking to ANSA, she said:
“I got into the ring to fight. I didn’t give up, but a punch hurt too much and so I said enough.
“I’m leaving with my head held high.”
Next to face Khelif is Hungary’s Anna Luca Hamori who said: “I’m not scared. I don’t care about the press story and social media.
“If she or he is a man, it will be a bigger victory for me if I win.”
