World Boxing President visits Nigeria, reaffirms no transgender participation
The President of the World Boxing Federation (WBF), Boris Van Der Vorst, has reiterated his commitment to the growth and development of boxing in Nigeria and across Africa during his two-day visit to the country. Addressing the topic of transgender athletes in boxing, he clarified that there are no transgender participants in Olympic boxing, calling […]
world boxing president visits nigeria, reaffirms no transgender participation
The President of the World Boxing Federation (WBF), Boris Van Der Vorst, has reiterated his commitment to the growth and development of boxing in Nigeria and across Africa during his two-day visit to the country.
Addressing the topic of transgender athletes in boxing, he clarified that there are no transgender participants in Olympic boxing, calling the issue a misconception.
Speaking at the ANOCA Headquarters in Abuja yesterday, Van Der Vorst emphasized the Federation’s vision for a sustainable future in the sport. He stated that his visit aimed to explore ways to enhance Olympic boxing for the benefit of both the Nigerian Boxing Federation and the World Boxing Federation.
It will be noted that the Interim President of the Nigeria Boxing Federation, Azania Omo-Agege, had firmly stated that the federation will not endorse any initiative aimed at promoting transgender boxing in the country.
Omo-Agege had expressed concerns over the proposed visit of Vandervorst, who was reportedly expected to advocate for transgender boxing during his visit.
“There is no transgender boxing in Olympic boxing. This is a misunderstanding. We are working to ensure there is a safe policy in place, covering medical procedures, gender variation, age, and equipment, such as gloves. Our policy on gender variation is ready, and we will be publishing it soon. There are no transgender athletes in Olympic boxing, not even in female boxing.
Coach Adura who was the chairman reception committee, is optimistic the visit will positively impact the boxing Federation and the community.
‘I am particularly elated by the visit of the World boxing President and his innovative ideas that will impact boxing in Nigeria. We are hoping this opportunity afforded to us will help us get back to our position that got us global recognition,” he said.