Female Boxing Faces Numerous Obstacles in Iran. In a challenging environment, thousands of determined female boxers in Iran are defying societal norms and training covertly in hidden locations such as basements, parks, and underground clubs. Despite boxing being officially prohibited for women in Iran, these dedicated athletes participate in international championships and frequently emerge victorious. Dr. Mahin Farhadizad, the Deputy Minister of Sports during President Rouhani’s administration, justified the ban on sports like boxing and powerlifting for women, stating, ‘We cannot endorse a sport that has potential impacts on the overall physical well-being and physiology of women.
Fighting for the Forbidden Sport
Ali Sharifzadeh
