Kazakh boxer Angelina Lukas appeared on the YouTube show TalkLike, where she spoke candidly about what she described as a fight against a transgender opponent and shared her views on LGBT representation in sports.
According to Lukas, she competed in a 2020 Olympic qualifying tournament in Jordan, where she faced an opponent from Thailand who she believed was transgender.
«In 2020, after I won the Zharyglapov tournament, I went to a qualifying tournament in Jordan. In my first fight, I faced an opponent from Thailand. Based on physical characteristics and appearance, I believed my opponent to be male. The fight ended 3-2 in favor of the opponent,» she said.
Lukas highlighted that she recognizes the difference in physical strength between men and women and considered the match unfair.
«I spar and train with men. I understand the differences in physical strength and in boxing approaches. When I fought my Thai opponent, I noticed a different level of strength. They should not compete against women, as there are significant differences between the two. I am uncertain how the rules allow this. In my view, it is not appropriate,» she said.
Lukas stated that the loss deprived her of the chance to qualify for the Olympic Games.
Comments on LGBT athletes
The boxer also spoke about lesbian athletes in Kazakhstan’s boxing community, noting she is aware of such individuals but does not believe their identities should be widely publicized or emphasized for young people.
«I know such fighters exist. The coaches are also aware. We’re raising the same flag, and I do not wish to name anyone, given my large audience and out of respect. It is their personal matter. I prefer it not to be made public or to serve as an example for the youth. Our society has different views; we’re not in America to allow that kind of thing. I believe this situation should be addressed,» Lukas said.
She went on to express concern regarding LGBT people, characterizing them in terms that may be criticized by human rights advocates.
«The Almighty created us for the continuation of the human race. When circumstances arise that deviate from this, such as same-sex relationships, I wonder if these individuals may have experienced trauma or negative interactions that influenced their perspectives,» she said.
However, Lukas also stressed that it is unacceptable to insult or demean LGBT people.
«These individuals may be vulnerable. There is no need to belittle or demean them. However, I believe these views should not be promoted. Many religious traditions recognize unions between men and women, and this perspective should be respected,» she said.
Career achievements
Lukas is one of Kazakhstan’s most decorated women’s boxers. In October 2024, she became the first IBO world champion from Kazakhstan, defeating Argentina’s Debora Anahi Lopez. In June 2025, she successfully defended her title, knocking out Chile’s Daniela Asenjo in a rematch in Taraz. Lukas also holds several other titles, including the WIBF, WBF, UBO International and WBC International belts.
