Pakistan's Shahzaib Rind successfully defends lightweight title at Karate event in Florida

Arab News

27-01-2025

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Karate fighter Shahzaib Rind successfully defended his lightweight title against former three-time world champion Edgars Skrivers, defeating him 7-0 at the Karate Combat (KC) 52 event in Miami, the Pakistan Mixed Martial Arts Federation (PMMAF) announced on Sunday.
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The KC52, a professional full-contact karate league, is part of a global karate MMA series featuring skilled fighters in action-packed competitions.
Rind, who hails from the impoverished southwestern Balochistan province, won his first martial arts title in 2011 after claiming victory in a provincial-level competition. His first national title came in 2019 when he triumphed at the National Games in the northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
During the two and half years of an undefeated Karate Combat career, Rind has fought fighters from North America, Peru, Venezuela, Brazil, France and India.
'In a stunning display of skill and determination, Rind has claimed his second championship title after a hard-fought victory against Edgars Skrivers,' the PMMAF said.
'The intense showdown unfolded on Friday in Miami, captivating audiences with its electrifying energy and showcasing the best of competitive spirit.'
The statement said Rind delivered an 'extraordinary' performance that kept his fans excited throughout the match, adding that his 'dedication, relentless training, and remarkable skill' had solidified his position as one of the top contenders.
'Rind's triumph is a testament to the power of perseverance and hard work,' the sports body said. 'As fans celebrate this incredible achievement, they eagerly await what the future holds for this rising star.'
The Pakistan Embassy in New York congratulated Rind on defending his title.
'Heartfelt congratulations to MMA fighter Shahzaib Rind, the brave son of Pakistan who hails from Balochistan, on defending his lightweight title in Miami, Florida, USA and becoming the world champion for the second time,' the embassy said on X. 'Shahzaib Rind dedicated his victory to the people of Pakistan.'
Heartfelt congratulations to MMA fighter Shahzaib Rind, the brave son of who hails from Balochistan, on defending his lightweight title in Miami, Florida, USA & becoming the world champion for second time. Shahzaib Rind dedicated his victory to the people of Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/Q2PovD1ZHC
— Pakistan Consulate General New York (@PakinNewYork) January 27, 2025
Rind boasts a combined Wushu and Kickboxing record of 75-4, the majority of which was attained while training himself by watching YouTube videos. He is currently training under Asim Zaidi at the renowned Goat Shed gym in Miami.
Zaidi is the president of Karate Combat, a brand that promotes the first professional full-contact karate league, hosting worldwide events since April 2018.