In a stunning display of pugilistic prowess, Kazakhstan has been catapulted to the top of the global boxing world, clinching the overall team title at the inaugural World Boxing Championships in Liverpool. The nation’s boxers secured a magnificent haul of seven gold, one silver, and two bronze medals, finishing atop the medal table and announcing a new era for the Central Asian boxing powerhouse.
The historic event, which concluded on September 14th, saw over 500 boxers from 66 nations compete under the banner of World Boxing, the new International Olympic Committee (IOC)-recognised federation. For the first time, men’s and women’s championships were held concurrently, creating a festival of boxing in the iconic British city.
A Golden Harvest for Kazakhstan
The Kazakh team’s performance was nothing short of dominant, with gold medals flowing from both the men’s and women’s divisions.
-
The Men’s Charge: Sanzhar Tashkenbay (50kg), Makhmud Sabyrkhan (55kg), and Torekhan Sabyrkhan (57kg) showcased the country’s depth in the lighter weight classes. However, the most resonant victory came from super heavyweight Aibek Oralbay (over 90kg), who shattered a national barrier by becoming the first Kazakh boxer ever to win a world title in the sport’s most prestigious weight category.
-
The Women’s Triumph: The women’s team proved equally formidable. Alua Balkibekova (51kg), Aida Abikeeva (65kg), and Natalya Bogdanova (70kg) all stood atop the podium. Bogdanova’s victory was particularly momentous, as she became the first Kazakh woman to claim a world championship at 70kg. Adding to the medal count, Nazym Kyzaibay (48kg) secured a silver, while Viktoria Grafeeva (60kg) and Yeldana Talipova (over 80kg) earned bronze.
This success builds on a wave of momentum for Kazakh boxing. Earlier this year, at the now-disputed IBA Women’s World Championships in Serbia, the nation’s female boxers also impressed, winning six medals. Balkibekova and Abikeeva were champions at that event as well, meaning their victories in Liverpool cement their status as dual world champions in a single year—a rare and remarkable feat.
Central Asian Dominance and a New World Order
The battle for the team title highlighted a significant shift in the sport’s geography. The medal table was dominated by Central Asian nations, with Kazakhstan edging out its regional rival, Uzbekistan, which finished a strong second with six golds, two silvers, and three bronzes. India rounded out the top three, with Brazil and Poland also making impressive showings in the top five.
This collective success underscores the region’s intensive training programs and deep-rooted boxing culture, positioning them as the teams to beat in the lead-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
A Nation Celebrates Its Champions
The historic achievement was met with jubilation back in Kazakhstan. National boxing icon and President of the National Olympic Committee, Gennadiy Golovkin, hailed the team’s performance.
“The first World Boxing Championships have come to an end. Thank you, Liverpool – history written!” Golovkin stated. “Proud of every boxer who gave it their all. The dedication and skill we witnessed here prove that Kazakh boxing is on the right path. And this is only the beginning.”
Echoing this pride while issuing a forward-looking challenge, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated the team. “Our boxers have delivered an excellent result, demonstrating true strength and character,” he said. “But the real challenge lies ahead – the Olympic Games in the United States. Preparations must start now. May the pride and tradition of Kazakh boxing always stay strong!”
A New Federation and a Clear Path Forward
The success of these championships is a significant milestone for World Boxing, the federation formed in 2023 after the International Boxing Association (IBA) was stripped of IOC recognition. With over 100 national federations now united under its banner, World Boxing has successfully re-established a clear and legitimate pathway for boxers to the Olympic Games, restoring order and optimism to the sport.
Kazakhstan’s resounding victory in Liverpool is more than just a collection of medals; it is a powerful statement of intent. As the sport moves forward under a new governing body, Kazakhstan has positioned itself at the forefront, its eyes firmly fixed on the ultimate prize: Olympic glory in Los Angeles in 2028.
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Support Dawat Media Center
If there were ever a time to join us, it is now. Every contribution, however big or small, powers our journalism and sustains our future. Support the Dawat Media Center from as little as $/€10 – it only takes a minute. If you can, please consider supporting us with a regular amount each month. Thank you
DNB Bank AC # 0530 2294668
Account for international payments: NO15 0530 2294 668
Vipps: #557320
Comments are closed.