Pakistan Defeats India to Win Gold at Asian Bodybuilding Championship

Fri Aug 22 2025
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BANGKOK, Thailand: Pakistani athlete Firasat Ali clinched the gold medal in the junior 75kg category at the 57th Asian Bodybuilding Championship 2025 in Thailand, defeating competitors from India and Afghanistan to secure the top spot.

Firasat Ali, a former bicycle puncture repairer from Multan, outclassed three Indian athletes—Bashan Dutt, Huwai Bam Riki and Feroz—and Afghan contestant Baitullah Zadran to win the title.

His victory is being hailed as a breakthrough moment for Pakistani bodybuilding and a source of national pride.

The Pakistan Bodybuilding Federation (PBF) praised the achievement, calling it a milestone for the sport in the country.

“His win is a shining example for young athletes across Pakistan,” the federation said in a statement, adding that it reflected the potential of Pakistani athletes to excel internationally.

PBF Secretary General Sohail Anwar lauded Ali’s success, noting that he had “raised the national flag high by defeating strong regional rivals”.

He said the victory would inspire youth to pursue competitive sports and strive for excellence on the global stage.

Ali had previously earned the title of Mr Punjab in 2024, and his latest win at the continental level underscores his steady rise in the bodybuilding arena.

Observers said his story—rising from modest beginnings to achieve success on an Asian platform—symbolises determination and resilience.

The 57th Asian Bodybuilding Championship gathered top athletes from across the continent.

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