ISLAMABAD: In a controversial move that has sparked international debate, World Boxing announced on Friday that it will implement mandatory sex testing for all boxers participating in its competitions.
The decision comes ahead of the 2028 Olympics, where the governing body is set to oversee boxing events following its provisional recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
According to an official statement, the measure aims to ensure “a competitive level playing field for men and women.” As part of the new policy, Paris Olympics women’s welterweight champion Imane Khelif has been barred from competing at the upcoming Eindhoven Box Cup, scheduled for June 5–10, 2025, until she undergoes a genetic sex screening in line with World Boxing’s newly implemented regulations.
Genetic Screening Now a Requirement
World Boxing clarified that all athletes over the age of 18 will be required to undergo a PCR-based genetic test to determine biological sex.
The test can be performed using a nasal or oral swab, saliva, or blood sample. Specifically, the screening will detect the presence of the SRY gene, which indicates the Y chromosome and is used as a biological marker for sex determination.
“The PCR test is a laboratory technique used to detect specific genetic material, in this case, the SRY gene,” World Boxing stated.
The presence of this gene typically denotes a male biological profile, regardless of an athlete’s gender identity or hormonal makeup.
Implications and Backlash
The decision has prompted concerns from human rights groups, athletes, and medical professionals who view mandatory sex testing as invasive and discriminatory.
While World Boxing argues the policy is meant to safeguard fairness in female competition categories, critics argue it could infringe on athletes’ privacy and may disproportionately affect women with differences in sex development (DSDs) or intersex traits.
As the sports world watches closely, the policy is likely to reignite global discussions on gender identity, fairness in sport, and the ethical boundaries of genetic testing in athletics.
