Imane Khelif Announces Professional Boxing Debut in Paris

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif will make her professional debut in Paris on December 15, marking her first competitive return to the ring in over two years, WELT reported.

Khelif, the 2024 Olympic gold medalist, is scheduled to compete in the super welterweight division against Clarida Sarabia.

Khelif transitions from amateur success to professional ranks

The upcoming match against Sarabia marks the beginning of Khelif’s professional career as she moves away from the amateur circuit. During a recent press conference held alongside her trainer, Kamel Abdesselam, and promoter Yacin Berrabah, Khelif addressed her long absence from competition.

“It has been over two years since I last boxed, and I have really missed being in the ring,” Khelif said. She noted that the previous years had been “quite difficult” but expressed readiness for her new chapter, stating, “Now it is time to become a professional, and I will give everything.”

In a video shared on Instagram to announce the fight, Khelif suggested her recent struggles were fought privately. “This fight was never just mine. It belonged to everyone who dares to be themselves and everyone who refuses to give up,” she said in the post.

Khelif faces controversy following Paris gold medal win

The decision to hold the debut in Paris brings Khelif back to the site of her most significant public controversy. Her gold medal win in the welterweight division during the recent Summer Games in Paris triggered widespread debate involving political figures and social commentators.

During the Olympic period, critics questioned her gender identity, with some figures, including Donald Trump, making public claims regarding her status. Khelif has consistently denied these allegations. In an interview with L’Équipe, she clarified her identity, stating, “I am a girl. I was raised as a girl. I grew up as a girl.”

Gender testing disputes leave Olympic future uncertain

While Khelif’s move to the professional ranks is confirmed, her future in amateur competition remains uncertain. The question of whether she will attempt to defend her Olympic title at the 2028 Los Angeles Games remains unanswered due to ongoing disputes with governing bodies.

World Boxing, the amateur international federation, introduced mandatory gender testing in the summer of 2025. Khelif confirmed she has taken legal or formal action regarding these requirements. “I cannot answer that, as I have filed a complaint with World Boxing regarding the gender tests,” she said when asked about the Los Angeles Olympics.

Her trainer, Kamel Abdesselam, indicated that the athlete’s focus has shifted entirely toward professional success. He stated that Khelif has “no interest in participating in the Olympic Games again” because she has already achieved gold medal status. Abdesselam expressed confidence in her rapid ascent through the professional ranks, stating he aims to make her a professional world champion “within three to five fights.”

Frequently asked questions about Imane Khelif’s professional debut

Who is Imane Khelif’s first professional opponent?

Khelif will face Clarida Sarabia in a super welterweight bout scheduled for December 15.

Where will the professional debut match take place?

The fight is scheduled to be held in Paris, France.

Will Khelif compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics?

Khelif has not confirmed her participation in the 2028 Games, noting that she has filed a complaint with World Boxing regarding their gender testing policies.

What is the goal for Khelif’s professional career?

Her trainer, Kamel Abdesselam, stated the goal is to secure a professional world championship title within three to five fights.

The boxing community now awaits details for the December 15 event in Paris.

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