World Boxing's New Sex Testing Policy: A Level Playing Field or a Controversial Move?

World Boxing to Introduce Mandatory Sex Testing for All Boxers The world of boxing is set to undergo a significant change with the introduction of mandatory sex testing for all its competitors, a policy that will also extend to the 2028 Olympic Games. This decision has sparked debate and raised concerns among athletes and fans alike. The governing body, World Boxing, has stated that the aim is to ensure a level playing field for both male and female athletes. This new policy will require all athletes over the age of 18 to undergo a genetic test, which can be performed using a variety of methods, including nasal or mouth swabs, saliva samples, or blood tests. One athlete already affected by this new rule is Iman Khelif, the 2024 Olympic women's welterweight champion. Khelif will be unable to compete until she completes the required testing. While the governing body has stated that the tests are designed to promote fairness and prevent any form of unfair advantage, this decision has raised concerns about privacy, potential discrimination, and the overall impact on the sport. The new policy is expected to significantly alter the competitive landscape of boxing, and its long-term effects remain to be seen. "The governing body will run the boxing competitions in the 2028 Olympics after being granted provisional recognition by the IOC." This statement from World Boxing underscores their commitment to implementing this new policy for the upcoming games. However, the lack of immediate response from athletes and the potential for legal challenges suggest that the implementation of this policy may face obstacles in the coming years.