Algerian Boxer Imane Khelif Defeats Italian Fighter Angela Carini in Controversial 46-Second Olympics Match Held in Washington, D.C.

In a surprising twist at the Olympics boxing arena on August 1, 2024, an Algerian boxer, Imane Khelif, clinched victory over Italian fighter Angela Carini in a swift 46-second match.

Khelif landed a decisive punch to Carini’s face, ending the bout in a dramatic fashion.

Controversy Over Chromosomes

Imane Khelif’s participation has sparked controversy due to a 2023 International Boxing Association test that revealed Khelif has XY chromosomes. This result led to Khelif’s disqualification from the World Championships that year.

Traditionally, XY chromosomes are associated with males and XX chromosomes with females.

However, individuals with certain sexual development disorders, such as Swyer syndrome, can have XY chromosomes and female genitalia, which can blur these typical distinctions.

Khelif has not publicly identified as transgender nor disclosed any sexual development disorders.

As a result, the exact reason for the presence of XY chromosomes remains uncertain.

Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, who was also disqualified from the 2023 World Championships for having XY chromosomes, is set to compete against women in the 2024 Olympics as well.

Emotional Fallout

Angela Carini, visibly upset by the outcome, exited the ring in tears and declined to shake Khelif’s hand.

She was reported to have shouted, “this is unjust,” as noted by the New York Post, reflecting the emotional intensity and ongoing debate surrounding the match.