IBF bantamweight champion Ebanie Bridges has voiced her strong opposition to transgender women competing in women's boxing, and female sports in general. In a recent interview, Bridges unequivocally stated she would never fight a transgender woman, emphasizing the inherent physical advantages of those born male, regardless of hormone therapy.

Bridges argued that allowing transgender women to compete against cisgender women undermines fairness and safety, particularly in combat sports. She drew a comparison to Mike Tyson transitioning and fighting women, highlighting the absurdity of such a scenario. Even sparring with smaller men, Bridges noted their significant strength advantage, solidifying her belief that biological differences cannot be ignored.

Bridges questioned the current criteria for determining eligibility, suggesting that simply appearing less masculine is insufficient. She also pointed out the one-sided nature of the debate, with transitions primarily occurring from male to female in sports, rarely the reverse. She believes that unless a transitioning female athlete takes significant, and banned, testosterone and steroids, they will be at a clear disadvantage against male athletes.

The boxer advocated for an open category specifically for transgender athletes, ensuring fair competition while preserving the integrity of women's sports. She stressed that biological realities cannot be dismissed and that allowing transgender women to compete diminishes the accomplishments of cisgender female athletes.

Bridges' stance aligns with other prominent female athletes who have expressed concerns about fairness and competitive balance in women's sports. The debate surrounding transgender athletes' participation continues to be a complex and evolving issue, with strong opinions on both sides.

Bridges, who also has a successful career as an OnlyFans model, has a strong boxing record. After winning gold medals at the Australasian Games in 2016 and 2017, she debuted professionally in 2019. Her only loss came in 2021 against Shannon Courtenay. She claimed the IBF bantamweight title in March 2022 by defeating Maria Cecilia Roman and successfully defended it against Shannon O'Connell in December 2022.