Pune: Class 9 Student, Boxer Hamza Shaikh Clinches Second Successive National Gold
Pune: Class 9 Student, Boxer Hamza Shaikh Clinches Second Successive National Gold
PUNE, September 22, 2025: Hamza Shaikh, a Class 9 student of The Bishop’s School, Camp, secured his second consecutive gold medal at the national level, emerging champion in the Under-17 (below 46 kg) category at the CISCE National Boxing Championship 2025–26 held in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
The tournament, conducted at the Ranital Sports Complex from September 18 to 21, saw top young boxing talent from across the country. Hamza, representing Maharashtra, displayed commendable skill and composure throughout the bouts, eventually clinching top honours in his weight class.
This win follows his gold medal performance in the Under-14 category last year, reaffirming his status as one of the most promising young boxers in the country. With this victory, the 14-year-old has also secured selection to the School Games Federation of India (SGFI)—a significant milestone in his sporting career.
Speaking after his win, Hamza said, “I want to thank the Almighty, my parents and family, Principal Shayne McPherson, Headmaster C. Gaynor, my class teacher Mrs. Pandey, coach Vikram Singh Hans, all PT teachers and coaches at The Bishop’s School, and my friends for their constant support and encouragement.”
Hamza began boxing at the age of 10 while in Class 5 and has since trained under former international boxer Vikram Singh Hans at both The Bishop’s Boxing Academy and Hans Boxing Academy. His commitment to the sport has already earned him several accolades at the district and state levels.
Career Highlights:
2× National Gold Medalist (2024, 2025)
1× National Silver Medalist- Multiple Golds in Pune District Boxing Championships
- Gold Medalist – Sakal Schoolympics 2024
Hamza now hopes to gain admission to the prestigious Army Sports Institute (ASI) in Pune, a facility known for grooming national and international-level athletes.
With back-to-back national titles and a growing list of achievements, Hamza’s progress is being keenly followed by the local boxing fraternity and school sports enthusiasts. His school and supporters have lauded his consistency and dedication, with many calling him a potential future star of Indian boxing.
