By Fatma Younis
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif will make her professional debut on December 15 in Paris, facing Mexico’s Clarida Sarabia at super-welterweight. The 27-year-old returns to the city where she won welterweight gold at the 2024 Olympics.
Olympic Gold Amid Controversy
Khelif’s Olympic triumph was overshadowed by a gender eligibility dispute after the International Boxing Association (IBA) disqualified her from the 2023 World Championships for allegedly failing to meet its criteria. The IBA had been expelled from the Olympic movement over governance concerns, and Khelif has consistently maintained she is a woman and not transgender.
Professional Debut Set for December
At a press conference, Khelif said she had not boxed in over two years and was eager to return to the ring. “The last couple of years have been quite difficult. The time has come to turn professional, and I’m going to give it my all,” she said.
Future Olympic Ambitions Uncertain
Khelif previously indicated she might defend her title at the 2028 Los Angeles Games and would comply with any required genetic testing. However, her coach Kamel Abdesselam said she has no interest in competing again, stating she is already an Olympic champion.
