Algerian representative Iman Khalif believes that criticism of his speeches is “detrimental to human dignity.”
Transgender boxer Iman Khalif has commented for the first time on the scandal that broke out after the fight with Italian Angela Carini at the Olympic Games in Paris.
Let’s remember that this match only lasted 46 seconds. The former man dealt several heavy blows to his rival and ended up breaking his nose. As a result, the Italian representative refused to continue the match, calling it “unfair.”
After this, a wave of criticism hit the Khalif. However, the Algerian athlete called for an end to bullying and spreading rumors that he is a transgender person.
“I call on everyone in the world to follow the principles of the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying athletes, because it has consequences, serious consequences. It can destroy people, kill their minds , spirit and mind. It can lead to division and therefore I ask everyone to avoid bullying.
The local coaches have known me since I was young, when I started playing for the national team. The Italian boxer knows me, and he knows me well. I trained him on the rings in Assisi. They took advantage of the media campaign against me, but I will still work hard to achieve the goal for which I am here,” Khalif was quoted as saying by euronews.
We add that in 2023, Khalif, as well as boxer from Taiwan Lin Yuting, was suspended from the World Boxing Championship due to a failed gender test, which revealed a large excess of testosterone. But the IOC did not consider this and allowed the athletes to participate in the Olympics, citing unclear biochemical testing standards.
In addition, the IOC stood up for Iman Khalif, who broke his opponent’s nose.
Source: korrespondent
I am Ashley Ortiz and I am a professional journalist working for Athletistic. My specialty is in sports journalism, particularly boxing. I have written articles for some of the most renowned publications on the subject, and my work has been featured across both print and digital media platforms.
