Boxing Update: WBC’s Transgender Division Seemingly Paused Due to “Very Minimal” Interest in Fighters Joining, Per Reports

The World Boxing Council (WBC), a titan in the sport, recently swung at a groundbreaking idea. Their plan? Introducing a transgender boxing division, a bold step towards inclusivity. But has this jab met its match in reality? Reports hint at an unexpected twist: a lack of fighters stepping into the ring.

This revelation, disclosed in a recent tweet by Boxing Kingdom, raises eyebrows. What’s behind this surprising turn of events? Is the WBC’s inclusive vision facing a knockout before the first bell rings?

WBC’s plan meets muted response

Boxing Kingdom recently stirred the pot with a tweet that has the boxing community buzzing: “On Hold‼️ The WBC’s transgender boxing division seems to be paused due to ‘very minimal’ interest, in fighters joining.” This tweet encapsulates the crux of the issue – the World Boxing Council’s ambitious initiative for a transgender boxing division is now in a state of uncertainty.

Initially, the WBC had grand plans for this division. Announced at the end of 2022, it aimed to carve out a new space in the sport, dedicated exclusively to transgender athletes. This move was not just about competition; it was a statement for inclusivity in a sport often criticized for its rigid traditionalism.

However, the reality has been starkly different. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, in his conversation with Express Sport, painted a picture of the situation: “It’s been a very, very slow call. A bit complicated…the response has been very, very minimal as far as athletes that would be eligible to look into creating a tournament or a division or a category specifically for transgender athletes.” Sulaiman’s words highlight a significant gap between the vision and the actual interest of potential participants.

This unexpected turn of events raises several questions. Why the lack of interest? Does it reflect a broader issue within the sport, or is it indicative of the challenges faced by transgender athletes in general? The WBC’s plan initially met with enthusiasm and curiosity, now finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with unforeseen challenges.

Not so long ago, Katia Bissonnette a female boxer, pulled out of her match when she found out the opponent had a transgender identity.

Bissonnette cites safety concerns

At the 2023 Provincial Golden Glove Championship in Victoriaville, Quebec, a highly anticipated match took an unexpected turn. Katia Bissonnette withdrew from her fight against Mya Walmsley, citing significant concerns upon learning about Walmsley’s transgender identity just an hour before the championship. “According to a study, a male blow has 163% more impact than a woman’s, even adjusted for weight,” Bissonnette stated, referencing research from the University of Utah.

This decision left Walmsley victorious by default, as a replacement opponent could not be found. While Bissonnette expressed her apprehension about the “physical and psychological risks” posed by such matches, Walmsley countered, emphasizing the need to trust in athletes’ gender identity and warning against the potential undermining of transgender athletes’ legitimacy.

Also Read: Ebanie Bridges Shows Her Admiration for Leigh Wood, Following His Featherweight Title Win

Where should the line be drawn between maintaining competitive integrity and ensuring inclusivity in sports? Your thoughts on this complex and sensitive matter are crucial as we navigate these uncharted waters.

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