In a stunning turn of events, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has been permanently banned from professional boxing after the World Boxing Organization (WBO) officially recognized him as a male competitor.

The ruling has stripped Khelif of all his medals and a staggering $25 million in prize earnings, sending shockwaves throughout the boxing world.

The decision comes after months of speculation and investigation into Khelif’s eligibility to compete in women’s boxing divisions. WBO officials cited medical evidence and governing body regulations as the basis for their ruling, stating that Khelif was in violation of eligibility requirements for female competition.

Khelif, who previously competed in major international tournaments and was considered a rising star in women’s boxing, reacted furiously to the decision. In an explosive public statement, he lashed out at the WBO and other boxing authorities, calling the move a “disgraceful act of discrimination and injustice.”

“This is an outrageous and baseless decision! I have dedicated my life to boxing, and now they are trying to erase everything I have worked for. This is an attack on my identity, my career, and my legacy,” Khelif declared. “I will not stand by and allow this to happen without a fight.”

The controversy surrounding Khelif’s eligibility first gained attention in 2023 when he was disqualified from the IBA Women’s World Championships just before the finals.

Reports surfaced suggesting that Khelif’s testosterone levels were deemed inconsistent with female competition standards, leading to further scrutiny from boxing authorities.

While some organizations continued to allow him to compete, the latest WBO ruling has now imposed a lifetime ban, bringing his professional career to a shocking halt.

Boxing experts and fans are divided over the decision. Some argue that the ruling is necessary to maintain fair competition in women’s divisions, while others believe it sets a dangerous precedent for gender identity in sports.

“This is a landmark case that will have long-term consequences for boxing and beyond,” said sports analyst Michael Thompson. “The debate over gender, fairness, and inclusion in sports is only going to intensify from here.”

Khelif has vowed to appeal the ruling and is reportedly considering legal action against the WBO. Supporters, including LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and prominent athletes, have rallied behind him, condemning the decision as discriminatory.

As the legal battle looms, one thing is certain: the controversy surrounding Imane Khelif’s ban has ignited a global conversation about the intersection of sports, gender, and fairness. Whether he will ever step into the ring again remains to be seen, but his fight is far from over.