Shahzaib Rind Makes History as Pakistan’s First World Champion in Karate Combat

Hamid Bodlah:

Lahore:Pakistan’s rising MMA sensation, Shahzaib Rind from Balochistan, has claimed the title of world champion after defeating Brazil’s Bruno Roberto De Assie in the final of the Karate Combat Championship (KC-49) held in Singapore on Wednesday. This victory makes the 26-year-old the first martial arts world champion from Pakistan.

Rind shared his joy on X (formerly Twitter), posting a picture of himself holding the championship belt, with the caption, “Dream Came True.” He proudly declared, “History has been made.”

Reflecting on the tough match, Rind said, “It was a very tough fight at the start, but I had hope, and with all your prayers, I fought till the end and became world champion for Pakistan.” On Instagram, he shared more about his journey, calling it “long and challenging” but expressing gratitude for the victory.

He also paid tribute to his coach, thanking him for his unwavering support throughout the journey. “You are not just a coach but a brother and mentor,” Rind wrote, acknowledging his coach’s vital role in his success.

Rabia Shafiq, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Singapore, congratulated Rind on his historic win, expressing pride and hope for his continued success. In a message on her X account, she called on Pakistanis to rally behind the country’s new champion.

Shahzaib Rind has previously competed in the United States’ Karate Combat league and is a six-time national champion. Speaking to The Express Tribune earlier this year, he shared his dream of becoming a world champion, a goal he has now triumphantly achieved.

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