Congratulations to 14-year-old Mohammad Yasser from Rajouri! He won a gold medal at the 4th Sub-Junior National Boxing Championship, which was held in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, from August 6 to 13.
A trainee at the Khelo India Boxing Centre in Rajouri, Yasser’s determination and impressive technique were on full display. He won the national title in the 52–55 kg weight category after winning five consecutive bouts, ultimately defeating Nelson Khwairakpam of Manipur in the final.
Yasser’s victory is particularly inspiring because he overcame limited resources to achieve national success. After losing his father six years ago, he was raised by his mother, Nasim Akhtar, who works as a domestic helper. His mother told local media that they don’t even own a mobile phone, and she didn’t know he had won until someone told her. “Yasser is very hardworking, and this is all because of his focus and commitment,” she said.
Yasser’s coach, Ishtaq Malik, a former national-level boxer himself, was instrumental in helping the young boxer prepare for the competition. The victory has been a source of celebration for many people in Rajouri and beyond. Rajan Sharma, a veteran boxer and former Divisional Sports Officer, J&K Sports Council, called the achievement a “moment of immense pride for the entire Union Territory.”
