The Italian boxer withdrew from her fight against Imane Khelif earlier this week. Despite this, she is set to receive the prize money designated for Olympic champions.
Italian boxer Angela Carini, who withdrew from a controversial bout against Imane Khelif. Carini abandoned the bout just 46 seconds in, citing that a punch had hurt too much and choosing to leave with “her head held high.”
However, she will receive Olympic prize money despite the ongoing debate surrounding the fight.
Controversial fight
The match between Carini and Khelif lasted only 46 seconds before Carini abandoned the ring.
In tears, Carini refused to shake Khelif’s hand, citing a painful punch as her reason for quitting. This abrupt end to the fight has fueled significant controversy online.
Khelif faced criticism after failing a gender eligibility test.
Khelif was disqualified from the 2023 Boxing World Championships after failing a gender eligibility test.
The International Boxing Association (IBA) attributed her disqualification to elevated testosterone levels.
This decision led to significant controversy and criticism.
According to the IBA, Khelif’s XY chromosomes disqualified her from competing in women’s events.
Despite this, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed Khelif’s eligibility for the Olympics.
The IOC maintains that Khelif, who has always competed in the women’s division, is recognized as a female athlete.
IOC spokesperson Mark Adams affirmed, “Everyone competing in the women’s category is complying with the competition eligibility rules. They are women in their passports, and it’s stated that this is the case that they are female.”
The IBA will pay Carini $50,000 after banning Khelif from the championships.
Following the fight, the IBA announced that Italian boxer would receive $50,000 in prize money.
IBA President Umar Kremlev expressed his sympathy, stating, “I couldn’t look at her tears. I am not indifferent to such situations, and I can assure that we will protect each boxer. I do not understand why they kill women’s boxing. Only eligible athletes should compete in the ring for the sake of safety.”
The IBA had previously announced that all Olympic champions would receive prize money to support their careers.
Gold medallists will receive $100,000. This amount will be divided among the athlete, their National Federation, and their coach.
Silver medallists will share $50,000, while bronze medallists will receive $25,000 each.
Carini’s response to losing the match after just 46 seconds.
Carini later spoke to the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, expressing her sadness over the controversy.
She stated, “I’m sorry for my opponent, too. If the IOC said she can fight, I respect that decision. It wasn’t something I intended to do. Actually, I want to apologize to her and everyone else. I was angry because my Olympics had gone up in smoke.”
Carini also mentioned that if she were to face Khelif again, she would “embrace her.”
This statement reflects her desire to move past the conflict. Despite the tumultuous circumstances, Carini aims to show sportsmanship.