Italian boxer withdraws from Olympic bout

Carini breaks down in tears after being caught by powerful blows

Thursday, July 29, 2021

PARIS - Italian boxer Angela Carini broke down in tears as she pulled out of her welterweight round of 16 bout against Algeria's Imane Khelif after just 46 seconds.

Carini was twice caught by powerful blows from Khelif, who failed a gender eligibility test last year. The Italian boxer said she did not feel safe continuing the fight.

"I was scared," Carini said. "I didn't feel like I could protect myself."

Carini is one of several boxers who have raised concerns about Khelif's eligibility. The International Boxing Association (AIBA) has cleared Khelif to compete, but the issue is still being debated.

The fight between Carini and Khelif was highly controversial. Many people believe that Khelif should not be allowed to compete in the Olympics because of her gender identity.

Carini's withdrawal from the fight is a major blow to the Italian boxing team. She was one of their top medal contenders.

The controversy surrounding Khelif's eligibility is likely to continue. It is a complex issue with no easy answers.