A recent claim circulating on Threads from August 2, 2024, falsely suggested that Mike Tyson has offered to box Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, with the proceeds purportedly going to a battered women’s charity. This claim, which has gained traction on social media, is entirely incorrect. The Threads post inaccurately refers to Khelif as an “Olympic DUDE,” which misrepresents the situation. Tyson’s team has confirmed that this claim is “absolutely false.”
Here’s a short breakdown:
- Official Responses: Tyson’s representatives confirmed the claim is false, and the International Olympic Committee clarified that Khelif has always been female, with appropriate documentation to support this.
- Evidence Check: There are no credible sources or public statements from Tyson regarding such a fight. Searches of Tyson’s social media and news reports reveal no mention of this purported boxing match.
The controversy around Khelif’s eligibility stems from a 2023 disqualification by the International Boxing Association due to DNA test results. However, the International Olympic Committee recognizes her eligibility to compete as a female in the Paris 2024 Olympics. In summary, the claim about Tyson and Khelif is completely unfounded, highlighting the importance of verifying information before accepting it as true.
