Imane Khelif to Make Professional Boxing Debut on December 15

Algerian Olympic champion Imane Khelif will make her professional boxing debut on December 15 in Paris, promoter Yacin Berrabah announced at a press conference in the French capital. Khelif, 27, will face 21-year-old Dutch boxer Clarida Sarabia in the super-welterweight category (-69.853 kg) at the Palais de la Mutualité. The six-round fight will mark Khelif's return to competition since her Olympic gold medal win in the -66 kg category at the 2024 Paris Games.

Khelif's initial professional debut was scheduled for April 23 at the Wagram hall in Paris but was postponed due to a left shoulder injury. Her opponent, Sarabia, has a record of four wins before the limit and no losses. Sarabia, of Colombian origin, is ranked 22nd in the BoxRec world rankings out of 87 registered boxers. Khelif expressed her excitement to return to boxing, saying it has been missing from her life and she is ready to move forward professionally.

Khelif has been dealing with controversy surrounding her femininity tests with World Boxing, which led to her filing complaints. When asked about a potential participation in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Khelif remained cautious, citing her ongoing issues with World Boxing. Her trainer, Kamel Abdesselem, believes she has no interest in competing in the Olympics again, given her already achieved status as an Olympic champion.

Khelif has parted ways with her previous promoter, Brahim Asloum, due to financial difficulties and teamed up with Yacin Berrabah to launch her professional career. Berrabah has expressed ambitious plans for Khelif, aiming to accompany her until the end of her career and targeting a world title after seven professional fights.

The upcoming schedule for Khelif has not been finalized, with Berrabah stating that it will depend on available opportunities. Khelif's decision to turn professional comes after overcoming challenges and controversies, with the boxer stating she knows where she is headed and is doing what she loves.

Clarida Sarabia, Khelif's opponent, has a relatively short but successful amateur career. Her experience and ranking could provide a challenging start to Khelif's professional career. The event on December 15 will be closely watched by fans and critics alike, given Khelif's high profile and accomplishments in amateur boxing.

Imane Khelif's transition to professional boxing marks a significant moment in her career. With her sights set on future challenges and titles, Khelif aims to build on her Olympic success. Her promoter, Yacin Berrabah, has a track record of supporting boxers through their professional journeys, which could be crucial in Khelif's pursuit of excellence in the sport.

Key points

• Imane Khelif's professional debut is set for December 15 in Paris against Clarida Sarabia.
• Khelif is moving forward with her career amid controversy and challenges.
• The boxer's future schedule will depend on available opportunities, according to promoter Yacin Berrabah.