Rabia Against All Odds: Is Pakistan's Youngest Boxing Star Fading Away?

Meet Rabia, a 17-year-old kickboxer from Karachi. With several medals and championship titles at domestic, national, and international levels, Rabia is one of Pakistan’s youngest athletes and a rising star in combat sports. 

In a conversation with Dialogue Pakistan, she expressed her dissatisfaction with the system, claiming it has let her down.

Initially, Rabia thought boxing was a sport only for boys, but soon she found herself inside the ring, surrounded by all odds. Here’s the headshot: she knocked out what was coming her way to chase her dreams.

In her family, Rabia was told that, being a girl, she was restricted to household matters, but she remained steadfast. With commitment and support from her parents, she punched patriarchal norms, dodged gender stereotypes, and pursued her passion for boxing.

Rabia is so proud of her father, whom she considers a role model for every father.

As the young female athelete climbs in her career, she now faces new challenges that overshadow her future as she aims to represent Pakistan and bring pride to the nation. 

She regrets missing participation in an international tournament in Iran due to a lack of funds, and now a similar situation casts doubts on her upcoming tours to Russia and Thailand.

We invite you to watch our discussion with this rising star to learn more about her challenges, struggles, and unwavering passion for Pakistan.