QUETTA – Pakistan’s star pugilist Muhammad Waseem claimed a landmark victory on home soil by winning the WBA World Gold Bantamweight Title at the inaugural International Boxing Championship held in Quetta — the first World Boxing Association (WBA)-sanctioned event of its kind in South Asia.
The high-stakes bout, staged at Quetta’s Polo Ground, saw Waseem knock out Venezuela’s Veseton Orono in the ninth round, electrifying the crowd and securing yet another title in his illustrious career. His dominant performance in the main event was the highlight of a night that featured eight fiercely contested bouts, including four official title fights.
The championship brought together renowned boxers from across the globe, marking a major step forward for the sport in Pakistan. International winners included Jamie Gelly, Sohail Iqbal, and Alegz Delmaghani from the UK, Morocco’s Tariq Zaina, and Mexico’s Jesus Seracho — all of whom delivered strong performances in their respective divisions.
Women’s boxing also featured prominently in the event, with Pakistani fighters Fatima Hazara and Malaika notching up impressive wins against local opponents, reflecting the growing depth of female talent in the sport.
The successful hosting of this international event under WBA sanction in Quetta is being hailed as a milestone for boxing in the region. Officials and spectators alike praised the championship’s organization and its potential to put Pakistan on the global boxing map.
The night not only celebrated athletic excellence but also underscored Pakistan’s capability to host world-class sporting events, inspiring a new generation of boxing enthusiasts across South Asia.
