In a stunning twist of fate, Olympic boxer Imane Khelif has been banned for life after failing a gender test, leading the World Boxing Organization (WBO) to officially declare him a man.

This shocking ruling has resulted in Khelif being stripped of all titles and prize money, totaling an astonishing $25 million.

The decision has sent shockwaves throughout the boxing world and beyond, as Khelif had emerged as one of the most promising female boxers in recent years. Competing in international tournaments and proudly representing Algeria, Khelif earned accolades for his impressive performances and significant victories, rapidly ascending the ranks of the sport. However, the revelation of the failed gender test has thrown these achievements into question.

The WBO released a statement confirming that the gender test was conducted in response to concerns raised by several competitors and officials. Independent verification of the test results concluded that Khelif did not meet the eligibility criteria to compete in women’s boxing divisions. Consequently, the organization took swift action, banning him from any future participation in the sport and invalidating all previous accomplishments.

All of Khelif’s medals, including those won at prestigious international events, have been rescinded. Furthermore, the boxer has been ordered to return the $25 million in prize money accumulated throughout his career. This ruling has ignited intense debate within the sports community, sparking discussions about the fairness of gender verification processes and their impact on athletes’ careers.

Khelif has yet to issue an official statement regarding the ruling, but sources close to him have hinted at possible legal action to contest the decision. Supporters argue that the verification process was flawed and that Khelif was unaware of any violations. In contrast, others contend that the WBO’s actions were essential to maintain the integrity of the sport and ensure fair competition.

This incident marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversations surrounding gender identity in sports, highlighting the complexities and controversies that arise when athletes are subjected to such scrutiny. It raises broader questions about how sporting organizations should address gender issues while promoting inclusivity and fairness.

As the situation continues to unfold, the world will be closely watching to see how both Khelif and the boxing community respond to this life-altering decision. For now, Imane Khelif’s once-promising career has come to an abrupt and contentious end