KHAPLU, Gilgit-Baltistan: Pakistani boxer Usman Wazeer on Thursday knocked out his Indian opponent in the first round of the World Youth Boxing Championship, taking home his 14th consecutive win.
Wazeer, 24, who hails from the Astore district of Pakistan’s northern Gilgit-Baltistan region, is nicknamed ‘The Asian Boy’ and widely regarded as one of the greatest contemporary Pakistani boxers. He is currently an undefeated welterweight boxer and the first Pakistani to hold the Asian Boxing Federation Welterweight title.
Wazeer made his professional boxing debut against Moroccan Brahim Oubenais (0-1-0) on May 3, 2019, in Dubai, where the former won by a split decision after four rounds, claiming his first professional victory. The Pakistan boxer, who has so far featured in six professional bouts, remains unbeaten.
Thursday’s match against Thilak Selvam — closely watched as Pakistan and India are longtime political and sports rivals — lasted a mere one minute and five seconds.
“Thank God, Usman has won his 14th fight and made the name of Pakistan proud,” Wazeer Tajwar, the boxer’s father, told Arab News over the phone.
“This time the enjoyment level is very high as he defeated the Indian boxer in the first round. We were watching the fight live in our house in Astore. The whole village, including relatives, gathered in our house to watch the fight. We were all dancing to music and celebrating the moment.”
Tajwar said his son was participating in international competitions without the government’s support.
“As a father I always push him to fulfill his dream. I have always supported him and will always support him. But the government should also support him as he is making the name of our country proud.”
Ghulam Muhammad, the minister for tourism and sports in GB, congratulated Wazeer on the win.
“I want to congratulate Usman for winning the fight against the Indian boxer today. And he made the name of Pakistan and Gilgit-Baltistan proud at international level,” Muhammad told Arab News over the phone.
“Usman is a very talented athlete from Pakistan and he left no stone unturned to fight for the country … We, the GB government, will support him.”
Wazeer has previously secured prestigious titles including the World Youth Title, Asian Title, and Middle East Title.
