An Olympic boxer has urged Imane Khelif to reveal her DNA results amidst controversy.
Marissa Williamson was scheduled to fight Khelif in the quarter finals on Saturday for the women’s 66kg competition – but lost to Anna Luca Hamori so did not advance.
While fighting Khelif, Italy’s Angela Carini left the ring after just 46 seconds, with a suspected broken nose.
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 since 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.”
Marissa Williamson has spoken out calling for proof of the Algerian athletes DNA results:
‘Obviously, at the moment it’s just speculation,’
‘Allegedly there has been DNA tests done that Imane is XY so if that’s the case then (firstly) come forward with that and own up to it and (secondly) the IOC should be stepping in because trying to make it fair for one person is making it unjust for so many more.’
Another fellow boxing athlete shared similar support for Khelif’s opponents. Gold medalist Claressa Shields said:
‘So they got men fighting against women in the Olympics boxing ! I wouldn’t have stood for no stuff like that!
‘That is so heartbreaking to the women who have to have their dreams ruined by a man. Sad asf!’
