Imane Khelif finds herself amidst another wave of heated debate. The Algerian boxer recently expressed her intention to go pro after clinching Paris Olympic gold in the face of controversy about her gender. But the declaration hasn’t gone well with some sections of pros and fans. The opinion is divided and it seems Natasha Jonas has a candid view on the development.

Khelif, 25, announced the news, as she declared, “I will soon enter the world of professional boxing. I have many offers.” The IBA had disqualified her from the 2023 world championships and since then her gender has been a topic of debate, which amplified after her round-of-16 win at the Paris Olympics. Jonas, 40, sat down with TalkSports, and when asked about the news, she explained the situation as a “tough subject.”

The women’s unified light middleweight champion advocated Khelif’s right to compete in sports but also argued about making it a “fit.” However, when enquired about the idea of not allowing persons with XY chromosomes in female boxing, Jonas, at 15-2-1, agreed with it. She continued, “To a certain extent, yeah. I just think it’s a big taboo that’s not going to end.” The Liverpool native then proceeded to talk about the idea of a separate category.

The Liverpool native added, “I think I remember the WBC making a statement not so long ago, saying that they will introduce a category for athletes like that. But then it’s how many athletes are going to be in that category. So it’s a mess.” While there is no consensus about Khelif’s pro career and her receiving the sanction or ban, she is not short of potential suitors. Eddie Hearn is one name that has been on the top of the list to sign her to his stable.

Eddie Hearn to swoop Imane Khelif?

Hearn, 45, demanded facts be out regarding the IBA’s tests and their criteria when he touched upon the Olympic champion’s gender controversy. When asked about the chances of him singing Khelif, he had an encouraging stance. He told IFL TV, “Yeah, I think if the facts were laid out, and it was a position where there’s no reason why this individual shouldn’t compete as a female.”

The Matchroom Boxing lynchpin has argued for striking a balance between protecting the athletes from physical advantage and the individual’s rights and facts, especially when Khelif had been competing in the amateur circuit for years. He had closed the dispute by asking whether one had to simply believe the narrative or had the people had seen the tests. Therefore, Hearn had adopted a practical approach to it, and it won’t be a surprise if he nabs Khelif after she turns pro and adds her to his stable.

What do you make of these comments by Natasha Jonas about Imane Khalif? Let us know in the comments below.