By A press conference held by the International Boxing Association (IBA) descended into chaos as they attempted to address the eligibility row involving Algerian boxer Imane Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting. Both athletes were allowed to participate in the Olympics despite being disqualified from last year’s World Championships due to unspecified eligibility tests.
The conference, attended by Sky Sports’ Geraint Hughes, was marked by technical glitches, shouting, and slanderous remarks from IBA President Umar Kremlev. The IBA failed to provide clear explanations for the disqualifications, adding to the confusion.
Imane Khelif called for an end to “bullying” after securing an Olympic medal, while the IBA’s reputation suffered further damage. The chaotic event also saw a demonstration by members of the Algerian Olympic delegation, including Khelif’s teammate Roumaysa Boualam, who defended Khelif’s right to compete.
