A major controversy shook the world of women’s boxing after athlete Imane Khelif was prevented from participating in the 2025 World Boxing Championship. The decision came after a DNA test requested by Elon Musk, owner of the X platform (formerly Twitter), which generated a strong repercussion on social media and in the sports world.

The controversy began when Musk, who has frequently been involved in debates about gender and the participation of trans athletes in women’s competitions, asked the International Boxing Federation (IBA) to perform a genetic test on Khelif. The test revealed that Khelif has XY chromosomes, typical of men, which led Musk to claim that the athlete would have a physical advantage over other women in the sport. Based on this result, the IBA decided to bar Khelif from participating in the tournament, claiming that she did not meet the requirements to compete in the women’s category.

The decision has caused a huge divide on social media and in the sports world. Supporters of the measure argue that biological differences between men and women, particularly in terms of physical strength and endurance, make it necessary to separate sports categories to ensure fair competition. They argue that having an athlete with an XY chromosome in a women’s category could create an unfair disparity.

On the other hand, groups supporting women’s rights and the inclusion of transgender athletes strongly criticized the decision, accusing Musk of prejudice and disregarding issues of gender identity. Many stressed that Khelif’s gender identity, as a woman, should be the determining factor in her eligibility, and not her chromosomes. Furthermore, it was pointed out that the issue of physical advantage in competitions cannot be simplified to a genetic analysis alone, since other variables, such as training and skills, also influence an athlete’s performance.

Imane Khelif, who is one of the most prominent athletes in women’s boxing, has yet to officially comment on the matter. However, her case raises broader questions about the treatment of women and trans people in sports competition. The controversy over inclusion and equity in sports continues to be a hot topic, and the IBA’s decision could have lasting repercussions on gender and identity politics in sport.

Meanwhile, the discussion about the power of major public figures, such as Elon Musk, in decisions that impact the lives of athletes continues to generate debate.