New Delhi, December 24: In a first, an Indian boxer from Kolkata raised the bar for Indian boxing by clinching the Oceania-Orient feather title. The Osiana Orient Champion held at the Philippines marked the victory of Asad Asif Khan over Malaysian Aiman Abu Bakar.

Various nations were represented at the Osiana Orient Champion. Asad's (8-2-1) performance in Manila showcased his intensive training. His opponent Aiman Abu Bakar (9-0-0), Malaysia's No.1 boxer and an undefeated international player, was beaten by Asad in an all-win match from the start. Asad completely dominated the event during all eight rounds for a one-sided win. Big Bout Indian Boxing League: Punjab Panthers Throw Down the Gauntlet With Two Wins in Final Against Gujarat Giants.

Asad Asif is a licensed professional boxer under the IBC (Indian Boxing Council), the only internationally recognized Indian Professional Boxing Commission. Muralidharan Raja, the current president of IBC and ex-General Secretary of the Boxing Federation of India said: "I am proud of Asif's achievement and it will motivate upcoming boxers."

An elated Asad said: "I will always say hard work is the key to achieving anything in life, all you need is a great mentor, and I was blessed with one. This victory humbles me to work harder and ask the youth of India to take up the most inspiring sport out there."

Hailing from Kolkata, Asad has been trained by Mujtaba Kamal. Kamal managed his fights as a manager right from the professional debut of Asad, which was on 19 November,2011.

Right now, Asad trains at Bengaluru. This win is a turning point for professional boxing in India, which will see the advent of more enthusiasts in this sport.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 24, 2019 05:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).