Transgender Boxer Hergie Bacyadan Challenges Gender Rules Amid Paris Olympics Controversy

In a unique twist at the Paris Olympics, Hergie Bacyadan stands out not just for his boxing skills, but for his identity as a transgender man.

While the spotlight recently shifted to controversies over gender testing in boxing, Bacyadan competed quietly without fanfare until now.

The recent uproar surrounds athletes like Algerian fighter Imane Khelif and Taiwan’s Lin Yu-ting, both of whom faced bans last year due to failing gender eligibility tests.

Despite these rulings, they are competing in Paris, sparking a heated debate about fairness in women’s boxing.

Hergie Bacyadan, the sole transgender boxer in Paris, identifies as a man. Unlike some competitors, he hasn’t undergone hormone therapy or formally transitioned.

Despite this, he believes athletes with XY chromosomes and elevated testosterone levels shouldn’t compete against biological women.

A Personal Standpoint

For Bacyadan, competing in the women’s division is about more than just sports—it’s about identity and opportunity. His stance is clear: while he identifies as a trans man, he respects the rules governing competition categories.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges and controversies, Bacyadan remains determined to continue fighting and representing his country, the Philippines, on the international stage.

In a sport where physical prowess and personal identity intersect, Bacyadan’s story sheds light on the ongoing dialogue about inclusivity and fairness in athletics.