By Nawaz Gohar ;  Pakistan’s rising international professional boxer, Shoaib Khan Zehri, is primed to represent the green crescent and star on the global stage once again. In a historic development, Zehri will face Indian boxer Umesh Chavan for the vacant Universal Boxing Organization (UBO) Super Lightweight World Title on June 20, 2026, in the scenic city of Bali, Indonesia.

More than just a tactical contest between two elite athletes, the high-stakes bout is being viewed across sports circles as a clash of prestige and national honor between South Asia’s traditional sporting rivals. Zehri enters the ring carrying the aspirations of a nation, driven by rigorous preparation and an unyielding determination to secure the world title for Pakistan.

To prepare for this career-defining milestone, Zehri has been undergoing an intense, high-performance training camp in Islamabad. His regimen incorporates modern technical coaching, grueling strength and conditioning modules, and specialized strategic sparring sessions designed to counter his opponent’s style.

Trainers have lauded his exceptional discipline, work ethic, and patriotic fervor, which set him apart in the professional boxing landscape.

Hailing from Balochistan, Zehri’s journey from a resource-constrained environment to the pinnacle of international boxing has transformed him into an icon of perseverance for Pakistan’s youth.

He has consistently utilized his global platform to project a progressive and powerful image of Pakistani sports, proving that sheer talent and relentless hard work can overcome institutional barriers.

Industry experts note that this championship bout could serve as a watershed moment for professional boxing in Pakistan, potentially unlocking major corporate sponsorships, international broadcasting opportunities, and global exposure for the country’s untapped fighting talent.

As the historic June 20 fight night approaches, the entire nation is rallying behind its national hero, sending waves of solidarity and prayers as he steps into the squared circle to etch Pakistan’s name into the annals of world boxing history.

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By Nawaz Gohar ; In a revolutionary move to promote sports in Pakistan, a dedicated boxing ring for women has been officially inaugurated.

The state-of-the-art facility, established at Lahore College for Women University (LCWU), is part of the Commonwealth Sports Game Changers Project. The project was realized through the efforts of the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) and was formally inaugurated by POA President Arif Saeed.

The ceremony was attended by key sports and academic figures, including POA Secretary General Khalid Mahmood, LCWU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Uzma Qureshi, and Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) President Colonel (Retd) Nasir Tung.

Speaking at the event, POA President Arif Saeed termed the project a significant milestone for the development of women’s sports in the country. He emphasized that this facility will provide female boxers with the necessary infrastructure to prepare for international-standard competitions. “The sports sector can play a vital role in women’s empowerment,” Saeed remarked during his address.

Vice-Chancellor Dr. Uzma Qureshi expressed her gratitude to the Commonwealth Games Association, the POA, and the Pakistan Boxing Federation for the installation of the ring. She noted that the initiative would not only promote gender equality in sports but also encourage women to participate in healthy physical activities.

The event concluded with a series of exhibition matches featuring talented female boxers, showcasing the potential of the new facility.

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By Nawaz Gohar ; The National Boxing Championship reached a thrilling conclusion at the Hyderabad Club on Sunday, with the Sindh Strikers emerging as the undisputed champions after a dominant display of skill and athleticism.

The tournament, organized under the auspices of the Pakistan Army in collaboration with the Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF), featured a grueling competition between 210 boxers representing 10 elite teams from across the country.

The Sindh Strikers claimed the top spot on the podium, fueled by an impressive collection of seven gold medals. Their tactical superiority and conditioning proved to be the deciding factor in the final bouts.

The overall team rankings were finalized as follows:
1st Place: Sindh Strikers (7 Gold Medals)
2nd Place: Punjab Thunders
3rd Place: Balochistan Eagles

While team glory was the primary focus, the championship also shone a spotlight on individual brilliance. Zameer Ali of the KP Titans was honored as the Best Male Boxer of the tournament for his technical precision and ring generalship. In the women’s category, Ayesha of the Sindh Strikers was declared the Best Female Boxer, capping off a stellar run for the championship-winning side.

During the closing ceremony, medals and trophies were distributed to the victors amidst a celebratory atmosphere, marking the end of a high-octane week for Pakistani boxing.

“The primary objective of this championship was to provide a platform for emerging talent,” stated Nasir Ejaz Tung, President of the Pakistan Boxing Federation. “We are identifying the next generation of fighters today so we can prepare them for the international stage tomorrow.”

The event serves as a critical component of the PBF’s talent hunt program. By integrating provincial teams like the Punjab Thunders, KPK Lions, and Sindh Strikers into a professional competitive structure, the federation aims to bridge the gap between domestic prowess and international standards.

With the conclusion of this event, the focus now shifts to the national training camps, where the top performers from Hyderabad are expected to be groomed for upcoming regional and Olympic qualifying events.

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Unbeaten boxer dedicates latest triumph to Pakistan’s Armed Forces martyrs

By Nawaz Gohar : Pakistan’s unbeaten boxing sensation, Usman Wazeer, delivered yet another commanding performance on the international stage, knocking out India’s Baljit Singh in the very first round of their much-anticipated bout.

The explosive finish not only electrified fans but also reaffirmed Usman Wazeer’s growing dominance in high-profile cross-border contests. The victory marks his third consecutive triumph against an Indian opponent, further strengthening his reputation as a composed and clinical finisher in pressure matchups.

From the opening bell, the Pakistani boxer displayed sharp footwork, calculated aggression, and tactical precision. A swift combination early in the round unsettled Baljit Singh, and moments later, a perfectly timed power punch sent the Indian boxer to the canvas, prompting the referee to call off the contest. The decisive stoppage underlined Wazeer’s superior conditioning and ring intelligence.

With this win, Usman Wazeer extends his flawless professional record to 18-0, maintaining an unblemished streak that continues to attract attention beyond regional circuits. His consistency, discipline, and evolving technical prowess signal the rise of a boxer who is steadily positioning himself among Pakistan’s most promising sporting exports. In a poignant post-fight statement, the proud Pakistani boxer dedicated his victory to the martyrs of the Pakistan Armed Forces who lost their lives in the Afghan conflict, paying tribute to their sacrifice and courage.

The boxing star also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his long-time sponsor, ACTIVIT, and its CEO, Rd. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed, for their great backing. He acknowledged that ACTIVIT has supported him comprehensively over his last five fights, including two against Indian opponents, and now this latest bout as well, his sixth under their support, providing financial assistance, medical care, and nutritional guidance critical for elite-level competition.

Usman Wazeer emphasised that structured sponsorship plays a pivotal role in a boxer’s professional journey, particularly in a sport where independent financial stability often determines long-term success. He noted that international competition demands not only skill but also sustained logistical and financial support.

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Lahore: Pakistan’s unbeaten boxing sensation Usman Wazeer is set to return to the international ring on February 28, 2026, when he takes on India’s Baljeet Singh at the high-profile Global Fight Night at the World Siam Stadium in Bangkok.

Carrying a flawless professional record of 17 wins from 17 fights, including 12 knockouts, Wazeer will be competing in his 18th professional bout, with his eyes firmly set on extending his unbeaten streak and moving a step closer to a coveted Open World Title shot. “I have already fought two Indian opponents in the past and knocked both out. I am excited and fully prepared for another strong performance.”

Despite his young age, Wazeer has already secured multiple prestigious regional and international belts, including WBC Middle East Title, WBA Asia Title, WBC OPBF Silver Title and WBO World Youth Title. In recognition of his sporting achievements and contributions to Pakistan’s international image, Wazeer was also awarded the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, one of the country’s highest civilian honors.

Currently, Wazeer is undergoing an intensive training camp in Karachi under the supervision of former boxer Ali Bakhsh. The camp, according to Wazeer, has significantly sharpened his technical and physical preparation. “I am training under former boxer Ali Bakhsh these days, and it is helping me a lot.

He is not only mentoring me but also doing a great job promoting professional boxing in Pakistan,” Wazeer said. The Karachi-based camp focuses on endurance, ring IQ, defensive movement, and knockout precision, attributes that have defined Wazeer’s dominant run so far.

Usman Wazeer also expressed deep gratitude to his long-time sponsor ACTIVIT and its CEO, Rd. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed, for their consistent support over his last five fights. Two of those bouts were against Indian opponents, and this upcoming contest against India marks a personal hat-trick for Wazeer in collaboration with the sponsor.

He acknowledged that ACTIVIT has provided complete backing, covering his financial commitments, medical support, and nutritional guidance, all of which are essential for an athlete competing at the international level.

He emphasized that sustained sponsorship, such as the comprehensive support provided by ACTIVIT, plays a decisive role in an athlete’s development, especially in professional boxing where independent financial backing is often crucial.

He added that every athlete requires strong financial stability, as competing internationally without structured backing becomes extremely challenging. For this continued trust and commitment, Wazeer said he remains deeply grateful to Rd. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed for everything he has done to support his journey and career.

Beyond his own ambitions, Wazeer is also committed to grassroots development. Through his UW Box Academy, he is currently training and grooming six to seven young boxers from across Pakistan. “I am preparing young boxers who are coming from different parts of the country. Professional boxing is growing fast globally, and it is progressing in Pakistan as well. The more our youth are trained and groomed, the better results they will bring for Pakistan.”

Wazeer believes structured training systems, international exposure, and institutional backing could transform Pakistan into a competitive force in professional boxing. “If the government comes forward and assigns us this national duty of preparing future boxing stars, we are ready to serve for this national cause,” he said.

Like many professional fighters around the world, Wazeer also dreams of fighting in the iconic boxing capital of the world, Las Vegas. “Every professional boxer wants to fight in Las Vegas. It is a dream come true for any fighter, and for me as well,” he shared.

Usman Wazeer said for now, his immediate focus remains firmly on Bangkok, however, his ultimate mission is clear. “My biggest and ultimate wish is to win the first Open World Title for Pakistan. That is why I am working so hard and making these sacrifices. I want to raise Pakistan’s flag at the highest level of professional boxing.”

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Lahore: Renowned Pakistani sports psychologist, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz recipient, and international F-Class long-range shooting champion Mohsin Nawaz has lauded the Pakistan Army and the Punjab government for their outstanding organization of the 2nd World International Boxing Championship, calling it a “major breakthrough” for Pakistan’s global sporting reputation.

The prestigious four-day championship, titled “Fight for Glory”, was held from November 26 to 29 at the Jinnah Sports Complex, Lahore, where 44 elite boxers from 15 countries competed in a high-profile international sporting spectacle. The event marked a significant milestone for Pakistan, transforming Lahore into an international hub for combat sports.

Speaking at the championship, Mohsin Nawaz emphasized that hosting multinational sporting events is essential for strengthening Pakistan’s international image. “As a sports psychologist, I firmly believe that international sporting events of this caliber have a powerful impact on global perception. Pakistan needs more such initiatives that showcase our professionalism, hospitality, and world-class organizational capabilities,” Nawaz stated.

The championship was jointly organized by the Punjab Government, Lahore Corps, and Fauji Foundation, in collaboration with the World Boxing Association (WBA). It attracted top-tier boxers from countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, Australia, Ireland, and several others.

As Pakistan’s leading F-Class shooter with 10 international medals, Mohsin Nawaz attended as a distinguished guest and observer, offering insight from both an elite athlete’s and a sports psychologist’s perspective. He described the event as a “game-changer” for Pakistan’s emerging sports industry.

“The seamless coordination, strict security measures, hospitality for international athletes, and overall execution were outstanding. The Pakistan Army’s Lahore Corps and the Punjab government deserve the highest praise for delivering such a world-class event,” he added.

During the championship, Nawaz also interacted with prominent sports figures, including British-Pakistani boxing icon Amir Khan, former cricket captain Shahid Afridi, and legendary batsman Inzamam-ul-Haq, along with several international athletes. He described the experience as both inspiring and professionally enriching. “Meeting sports legends while witnessing a championship of this scale was truly remarkable. It reflects Pakistan’s growing influence in international sports,” Nawaz shared.

Highlighting the broader social impact, Nawaz stressed the psychological and inspirational value such events provide to Pakistan’s youth. “When young people witness international athletes performing on home soil, it elevates aspirations, improves mental health, and strengthens national pride. This is the soft power Pakistan needs to project globally.”

He further pledged his full support for Pakistan’s sports development initiatives: “I stand ready to contribute in every possible capacity, from athlete mentoring and psychological training to event promotion, to ensure Pakistan continues hosting world-class competitions.”

The championship was attended by several dignitaries, including Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Lieutenant General Fayyaz Hussain Shah. International participants also publicly praised Pakistan’s hospitality, facilities, and the vibrant atmosphere created by the organizers.

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ISLAMABAD : By Nawaz Gohar ; Shoaib Khan Zehri is set to write a new chapter in Pakistan’s sporting history as he becomes the first Pakistani boxer to qualify for the UBO Super Lightweight World Title Championship.

The landmark bout is scheduled for 20 December in Istanbul, Turkey, where Zehri will face tough Indian opponent Jatinder Thakur in a highly anticipated showdown.

Zehri is currently undergoing intensive training in Islamabad, leaving no stone unturned in preparation for the world title challenge. His regimen includes specialised coaching, strength conditioning and strategic sparring sessions designed to elevate his performance to the global stage.

Speaking about the opportunity, Shoaib Zehri said, “My goal is to make Pakistan proud. I request the entire nation to pray for me so I can bring this world title home.”

His participation in the UBO Super Lightweight World Title Championship is not only the biggest moment of Zehri’s professional career but could also pave the way for a new era of professional boxing in Pakistan.

Sports fans across the country now eagerly await 20 December, as the fight represents more than a title contest, it stands as a symbolic battle of pride between two traditionally rival nations.

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ABBOTTABAD: A talented young athlete from Namli Maira, Abbottabad, Eman Yaseen has proved through her dedication, hard work, and determination that true passion always paves the way to success.

Skilled in both Wushu and Boxing, Eman Yaseen has already made a mark in local and national competitions, earning multiple Gold and Silver medals a clear reflection of her exceptional ability and unwavering commitment.

Trained under the guidance of Kung Fu Master Saeed Akhtar, one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s most renowned martial arts instructors, Eman Yaseen began her journey at one of the province’s oldest and most active Wushu academies.

With her coach’s mentorship, she achieved remarkable success at the district level and recently won a medal at the 15th National Wushu Championship held in Gujrat Punjab, bringing pride to both Abbottabad and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Not limiting herself to Wushu alone, Eman Yaseen has also stepped into boxing, where she has competed in ten matches so far — winning Gold medals in all of them. To further refine her technical skills and physical fitness, she has now joined a well-known Sami tiger boxing club in Islamabad, Rawalpindi where she continues to train intensively under the guidance of Sir Sami tiger.

Speaking to the media, Eman Yaseen shared that she has been passionate about martial arts since childhood. Martial arts are essential for women, Eman said. They not only help maintain physical fitness but also instill confidence and self-defense awareness. Sports like Wushu and boxing empower women to become stronger, confident, and self-reliant.”

Eman expressed her dream of representing Pakistan on the international stage, determined to raise the green crescent flag high with pride and honor.

Her mentor, Master Haji Saeed Akhtar, praised her discipline and determination, saying, Athletes like Eman Yaseen are a source of pride not only for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but for the entire nation. Her hard work is proof that women, if determined, can excel in any field — whether it’s Wushu or boxing — and earn recognition through their talent and courage.

Eman Yaseen continues to serve as an inspiring example for young women across Pakistan, proving that with passion, focus, and effort, nothing is impossible.

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Usman Wazeer set to defend WBC OPBF Silver title on home soil this Nov

Lahore: By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan’s undefeated welterweight sensation Usman Wazeer is all set to defend his WBC OPBF Silver Championship title on home soil in the last week of November 2025. The bout will mark a significant step forward not just in Usman’s career, but in Pakistan’s presence on the global boxing stage.

Wazeer, who clinched the WBC OPBF Silver belt earlier this year in Thailand by defeating Indonesia’s top-ranked boxer Stevie Ferdinandus, is eager to return to the ring in front of his home crowd. Reflecting on that title-winning performance, the 24-year-old recalled the intensity of the challenge.

“It was a 10-round fight and the first three rounds were tough because of his experience, over 50 fights. But I trusted my stamina and game plan. I gained control from the fourth round onwards and knocked him out at 2 minutes and 22 seconds in the tenth,” he said. The bout was broadcast live on DAZN and watched in 168 countries, a proof of the growing attention on his promising career.

Now preparing for what will be his 18th professional fight, Wazeer carries a perfect record of 17 wins without defeat. “I’m confident about defending my title. I want to make history on Pakistani soil and raise the national flag with pride,” he said. “My coach and team are working hard to prepare me for this challenge, and I’ll be aiming for 18-0.”

A key part of Usman’s journey has been the support of ACTIVIT, a sports and health initiative led by Rd. Rizwan Aftab Ahmed, who is also the Director of National Hospital DHA Lahore. “ACTIVIT has fully sponsored my last four international fights, which I won.

Their backing, from financial aid to medical support for me and my family, has been a major morale booster,” he noted. “They’ve created a family-like environment for athletes, and their belief in me keeps me focused and motivated.”

Born in Astore, Gilgit-Baltistan, Wazeer’s rise in boxing is nothing short of inspirational. With limited sporting infrastructure in his hometown, he initially moved to Islamabad for football trials, but fate redirected him towards boxing.

He began his journey in 2015 at a local boxing club, became Islamabad champion in his debut amateur year, and went on to win gold at the HEC All-Pakistan Championship in 2017. His performance in the 2018 Punjab Games caught the eye of British-Pakistani boxing star Amir Khan, who invited him to train at the Amir Khan Boxing Academy in Islamabad.

Wazeer made his professional debut in 2019 in Dubai, and by 2021 had already claimed the WBC Middle East title. In 2022, he made history by becoming the first Pakistani to win the WBO World Youth title and also secured the WBA Asia Welterweight Championship the same year. His growing list of victories includes wins over opponents from India, Indonesia, Thailand, Tanzania, and Malaysia.

The talented Pakistani boxer is now gearing up for what could be the most significant fight of his career, defending his title in front of a home crowd.

“This fight is not just about me. It’s about raising the Pakistani flag on our own soil and showing the world what we’re capable of,” he said. “With my team behind me, I’ll correct my weaknesses and aim for perfection. I want to make history again, not just for Gilgit-Baltistan, but for all of Pakistan.”

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Karachi Sports Link, Sindh Boxing Association has announced the schedule of trials across Sindh for the 35th National Games. According to Abdul Razzaq Baloch, Secretary General Sindh Boxing Association,

these trials will be held in the categories of men 50,55,60,65,70,75,80,85,90+90 kg, while women will be held in the categories of 48,50,52,54,57,60,70,75 kg.

The trials of Sukkur Division will be held on October 10 at 3:00 PM at Mehran Boxing Club, Dharki, Sukkur, while the trials of Larkana Division will be held at Khora Sports Complex at 3:00 PM.

The trials of Hyderabad Division will be held on October 10 at Wapda Football Ground, Niaz Stadium, Hyderabad. Trials for the Mirpur Khas Division will be held at 3 pm on October 17 at Shaheed Benazirabad, Bilawal Sports Complex and the trials for the Mirpur Khas Division will be held at the Boxing Academy Gama Stadium, Mirpur Khas.

Trials for the Karachi Division will be held at Ali Muhammad Qambrani Boxing Arena, Kukri Sports Complex, Lyari on October 17, after which the trials for the Sindh Boxing Teams will be held at the Ali Muhammad Qambrani Boxing Stadium with the final trials on October 19.

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