Pakistani boxer Usman Wazeer knocked out his Indian opponent in the first round of the World Youth Boxing Championship on Thursday, marking his 14th consecutive victory.
At 24 years old and hailing from the Astore district in Gilgit-Baltistan, Wazeer, nicknamed “The Asian Boy,” is regarded as one of Pakistan’s top contemporary boxers. He remains undefeated in the welterweight division and is the first Pakistani to hold the Asian Boxing Federation Welterweight title.
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Wazeer made his professional debut against Moroccan boxer Brahim Oubenais on May 3, 2019, in Dubai, winning by split decision after four rounds. He has participated in six professional matches without suffering a defeat.
Thursday’s bout against Thilak Selvam lasted just one minute and five seconds, attracting significant attention due to the longstanding rivalry between Pakistan and India.
“Thank God, Usman has won his 14th fight and made Pakistan proud,” said Wazeer Tajwar, the boxer’s father, in a phone interview with Arab News. He added that the atmosphere at their home in Astore was celebratory, with relatives gathering to watch the live fight.
Tajwar noted that his son competes internationally without government support. “As a father, I always encourage him to pursue his dream and have consistently supported him, but the government should also back him, as he is representing our country with pride.”
Ghulam Muhammad, the tourism and sports minister for GB, also congratulated Wazeer, stating, “Usman has made Pakistan and Gilgit-Baltistan proud on the international stage. He is a talented athlete who has worked hard for his country, and the GB government will support him.”
Wazeer has previously won significant titles, including the World Youth Title, Asian Title, and Middle East Title.
