In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has been banned for life after the World Boxing Organization (WBO) officially recognized the athlete as biologically male, stripping Khelif of all medals, titles, and over $25 million in accumulated prize money.

The dramatic ruling, announced late Wednesday evening, follows months of controversy and intense speculation surrounding Khelif’s eligibility to compete in women’s boxing events. The WBO’s medical and gender verification panel concluded its investigation last week, and the decision was unanimous: Khelif, who competed in the female category for years, is now deemed ineligible based on the organization’s updated biological sex policy.

“It is with deep regret that we must enforce this action,” said WBO President Francisco Valcárcel. “Our organization is committed to fairness, safety, and the integrity of women’s sports. After thorough review, it was determined that Khelif’s participation did not meet the current eligibility standards.”

The fallout has been immediate and intense.

Khelif, 26, had long been considered a rising star in women’s boxing, claiming multiple gold medals in international tournaments and headlining lucrative pay-per-view bouts. Her undefeated streak and aggressive fighting style made her a fan favorite across North Africa and Europe. But rumors about her gender identity began circulating last year, especially after a last-minute disqualification from the 2023 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championship final, with officials citing “medical irregularities.”

Now, the full weight of those whispers has come crashing down.

“This is a disgrace. She fought with honor, with discipline, with talent — and now she’s being erased,” said Khelif’s coach and longtime supporter, Mourad Meziane. “This decision is politically driven and inhumane. We will fight it.”

But the WBO remains unmoved. As part of the ruling, Khelif will be forced to return all medals, trophies, and financial rewards accumulated from women’s competitions, totaling approximately $25 million in sponsorships, purses, and appearance fees.

Public reaction is fiercely divided.

Supporters of the decision hail it as a victory for fairness in women’s sports, arguing that biological advantages compromise the integrity of competition. Others, however, view the lifetime ban as a violation of human rights and a dangerous precedent rooted in transphobia and discrimination.

On social media, the hashtag #JusticeForKhelif began trending within hours, with activists, athletes, and public figures calling for the WBO to reverse its decision.

As of Thursday morning, Khelif has not made a public statement, though sources close to the fighter suggest she is preparing to launch an international legal appeal, possibly targeting both the WBO and the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

One thing is clear: boxing has entered a new and volatile era, and the Khelif case may just be the beginning of a much larger war over identity, science, and sport.