Archive · 31 May 2025
World Boxing Introduces Mandatory Gender Testing for Athletes
World Boxing is starting mandatory gender tests for all boxers.
This decision was influenced by discussions about Imane Khelif, a gold medalist, after the Paris Olympics.
The tests use PCR to find specific genetic material and determine the athlete's sex at birth.
Khelif, among others, must take the test.
The tests are to be done via a nasal or mouth swab, or a sample of saliva or blood, and athletes will not be permitted to compete in World Boxing competitions until the tests are taken.
World Boxing will mandate gender testing for all athletes in its competitions.
The policy follows controversy surrounding Imane Khelif at the Paris Olympics.
Imane Khelif must undergo testing to compete at the Eindhoven Box Cup.
Testing involves a PCR genetic test to determine sex at birth.
National federations are responsible for confirming their athletes' sex.
- Who
- All athletes over 18 participating in World Boxing competitions.
- What
- Mandatory PCR genetic testing to determine the sex of athletes.
- When
- Announced recently; testing required before the Eindhoven Box Cup in June 2025.
- Where
- World Boxing competitions, including the Eindhoven Box Cup.
- Why
- To ensure fairness and safety in boxing competitions.
- Governing Body
- World Boxing
- Affected Athletes
- All boxers over 18
- Testing Method
- PCR genetic test
- Key Athlete
- Imane Khelif
- Upcoming Event
- Eindhoven Box Cup
Sources
Boxer Imane Khelif faces mandatory genetic sex screening to compete
Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif must undergo genetic sex screening to fight for new governing body
World Boxing introduces mandatory sex tests for all fighters
