World Boxing has confirmed that all female competitors at its upcoming World Championships in Liverpool will be required to undergo sex testing. The policy, announced on Wednesday, mandates a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test or an equivalent genetic screening to determine athletes` sex at birth.

The new regulation is set to take effect ahead of the tournament in early September and has sparked renewed debate on gender verification in sport.

“World Boxing respects the dignity of all individuals and is keen to ensure it is as inclusive as possible,” said Boris Van Der Vorst, president of World Boxing, reported news agency AP. “Yet in a combat sport like boxing, we have a duty of care to deliver safety and competitiveness fairness, which are the key principles that have guided the development and creation of this policy.”