News Desk: Abida Batool, a 26-year-old boxer from Quetta, has made history by becoming the first Pakistani woman to win a Women’s International Boxing Association (WIBA) world title.
Batool claimed the world atomweight championship after defeating Thailand’s Wande Sienongkrot at the Brave Hearts-6 boxing event in Pattaya, Thailand, on October 31.
The eight-round title bout at FCC Stadium ended in the fifth round after an accidental clash of heads left the Pakistani boxer with a fractured nose. The ringside doctor stopped the contest, and the winner was determined through the judges’ scorecards.
Two judges scored the fight in Batool’s favour, while the third supported her Thai opponent, resulting in a split technical decision victory for the Pakistani boxer.
Batool began her boxing career in 2018 and faced financial difficulties and opposition from her family during the early stages of her journey. Despite these challenges, she continued pursuing her ambition and gradually established herself in professional boxing.
Before winning the WIBA world title, she had secured Pakistan’s national professional boxing championship. She has also competed in mixed martial arts (MMA), Wushu and kickboxing.
In January, Batool challenged for the WBC Asia atomweight title but failed to secure the championship.
Following her historic victory, she thanked her family, coach Shariq Khan, sponsors and the people of Pakistan for supporting her boxing career.
Abida Batool’s achievement is a significant milestone for women’s boxing in Pakistan and is expected to encourage young female athletes, particularly in Balochistan, to pursue professional sports.
