Amir Khan, the acclaimed former world light-welterweight champion, recently voiced his profound disappointment and frustration regarding the closure of his esteemed boxing academy located in Islamabad, Pakistan. Through a heartfelt and poignant video message, Amir conveyed his deep-seated dismay at the unexpected cessation of operations at the academy, which had long stood as a symbol of hope and opportunity for aspiring boxers across the region.
Recalling his frequent visits to Pakistan, Amir reminisced about the bustling activity and vibrant energy that once characterized the academy. However, he expressed profound sorrow over its absence, highlighting the stark contrast to the past. Amir revealed that he had been inundated with messages from enthusiastic children eager to partake in boxing training and classes, a testament to the academy’s significant impact and influence.
Despite his tireless efforts to engage with government officials and relevant authorities, Amir expressed his frustration at the lack of concrete action taken to address the situation. He emphasized the importance of promoting and supporting boxing within Pakistan, lamenting the missed opportunity to harness and develop sporting talent.
Amir painted a vivid picture of the academy he had painstakingly established, describing it as a state-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest amenities and resources. The forced closure of the gym, despite its pristine condition and substantial financial investment, left Amir deeply disheartened and disillusioned.
In the face of adversity, Amir underscored the critical role of government intervention in resolving the issue and facilitating the revival of the academy. He emphasized the potential loss of opportunity for aspiring young boxers and the setback to his own endeavors in nurturing and fostering sporting talent within the country.
The establishment of the boxing academy in 2016 represented a beacon of hope for boxing enthusiasts in Pakistan. Under an agreement with the Pakistan Sports Board, Amir had pledged to provide expert coaching and essential equipment, with the expectation of receiving necessary support from the government to ensure the academy’s sustainable operation.
With no forthcoming assistance from the government, Amir reluctantly announced his decision to return to England. Despite this setback, he remained steadfast in his commitment to explore legal avenues in the future to reclaim the academy. He expressed a fervent hope that the dreams and aspirations of young boxers would not be extinguished and that the academy could once again serve as a thriving hub for nurturing champions and fostering sporting excellence in Pakistan.
