Teen Boxer from Rajouri Triumphs at Asian Championships

A Hero's Welcome for Mohammad Yasir

On May 22, a large crowd gathered in Rajouri, a border district in Jammu and Kashmir, to celebrate the return of 14-year-old Mohammad Yasir, who recently clinched a gold medal at the Asian Under-15 Boxing Championships held in Uzbekistan. The young athlete was greeted with garlands, lifted onto shoulders, and cheered by locals, marking a significant moment in his journey from poverty and homelessness to sporting success.

Yasir triumphed over Abdullah Karimjonov from Uzbekistan in the final of the Boys’ 58kg category, bringing pride to his community. His victory in Tashkent is seen as a beacon of hope for the residents of Rajouri, who celebrated his achievement as a testament to resilience. A local resident expressed joy, stating, “Eid is just a week away, but today feels like our Eid. Yasir has returned as an Asian champion, rising from a life of hardship.”

To support his family, Yasir works as a cook in Rajouri, having lost his father at the age of six. The family faced further challenges when their home was demolished during a government anti-encroachment drive, forcing them into a cramped living situation at an industrial training institute. The environment was tough, with drug abuse prevalent in the area.

Yasir acknowledged that boxing saved him from the dangers of drug addiction. He shared, “Without boxing, I might have succumbed to the negative influences around me.” His journey into boxing began unexpectedly when he got into a scuffle with a local boxer over unpaid work. His coach, Ishtiyaq Malik, recognized his potential during this altercation, noting, “The fight revealed his fighting spirit and determination.”

For the past three years, Yasir has trained under the Khelo India program, with Malik providing essential guidance. Yasir credited his coach for his success, stating, “I owe my progress to the training and support I received.” Malik emphasized that boxing has been crucial in steering Yasir and his brother away from addiction in a challenging environment.

Despite financial struggles, Yasir’s mother, Naseema, ensured her children remained engaged in sports. She worked as a domestic helper and prioritized sending her children to play, a decision that has significantly impacted Yasir’s life. In just three years of formal training, he has emerged as one of India’s promising boxing talents, now aspiring to compete at the Olympic level after his success in Asia.