Boxer Imane Khelif Faces Gender Controversy

Bulgarian-Nigerian boxer Joana Nwamerue has controversially labeled Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif as 'a man', suggesting that Khelif has been 'biologically altered' by living in the mountains. This claim follows scrutiny over gender eligibility after Khelif won gold at the Paris Games, despite having been disqualified from the 2023 World Championships for elevated testosterone levels. Nwamerue recounted her sparring experiences, asserting Khelif displayed 'male power and male techniques,' and stated she would remain firm in her beliefs until Khelif provides proof of her gender. Khelif, who was born female and is not transgender, received a hero's welcome upon returning to Algeria, where she defended her qualifications as a woman. Amidst this controversy, IOC President Thomas Bach faces pressure over gender issues in sports and is set to step down, with Lord Sebastien Coe as a potential successor.