Algerian Boxer Admits to Male Chromosomes After Accusations of Transphobia

Imani Khelif's admission contradicts previous claims and defense by Jemele Hill and others

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Algerian Olympic boxer Imane Khelif has admitted that he has more male than female chromosomes and male levels of testosterone, contradicting his previous claims of being a woman. This comes after leftist figures like Jemele Hill accused critics of Khelif of being 'transphobic' when he competed in the 2024 Olympics' female categories and beat many female competitors.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around transgender athletes competing in women's sports, as well as the role of the media in amplifying certain narratives and accusing critics of 'transphobia' without fully understanding the biological facts.

The details

Khelif previously claimed he was a woman, but has now shared with French sports publication L'Equipe that he has mostly male characteristics. He said 'I'm not transgender. My difference is natural. This is who I am. I haven't done anything to change the way nature made me.' Khelif also admitted to taking hormone treatments to lower his testosterone levels for competitions, but plans to continue competing as a woman in the 2028 Olympics.

  • In 2024, Khelif competed in the Olympics in Paris and won gold, beating many female competitors.
  • In 2026, Khelif admitted to having more male than female chromosomes and male levels of testosterone.

The players

Imane Khelif

An Algerian Olympic boxer who competed in the women's categories despite having mostly male biological characteristics.

Jemele Hill

A left-leaning sports writer who defended Khelif and accused his critics of being 'transphobic'.

Dawn Staley

A WNBA star who sided with Khelif and Hill, saying the critics 'need to pray' because of their 'pure hatred'.

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What they’re saying

“We all have different genetics, different hormone levels. I'm not transgender. My difference is natural. This is who I am. I haven't done anything to change the way nature made me. That's why I'm not afraid.”

— Imane Khelif (L'Equipe)

“A lot of people need to apologize. I hope Khelif sues some people over their reckless remarks. All this story did was expose ugliness, hatred, and transphobia.”

— Jemele Hill, Writer (X (formerly Twitter)

“They also need to pray and be prayed for because... the way their lives are set up pure hatred.”

— Dawn Staley, WNBA Star (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

Khelif plans to continue competing as a woman in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, stating he will take any required tests.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around transgender athletes in women's sports, as well as the role of the media in amplifying certain narratives without fully understanding the biological facts. It also raises questions about fairness and integrity in competitive sports.