Laura Akram Makes History with Pakistan’s First Elite Women’s Boxing Medal on World Stage
LAHORE – British-Pakistani boxer Laura Akram has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by winning Pakistan’s first-ever world-level medal in elite women’s boxing. Her impressive performance at the prestigious World Boxing Challenge, held as part of the Grand Prix Ústí nad Labem, has earned her a place in the semifinals—and guaranteed at least a bronze medal for the country.
Akram secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Palestine’s Noura Salman in the women’s 57kg quarterfinal match, according to a report by PTV Sports. This landmark win marks the first time a female boxer representing Pakistan has earned a podium finish at this international event, setting a new benchmark for women in combat sports.
A Historic First for Pakistan
With this win, Akram becomes the first elite female boxer from Pakistan to claim a medal at the World Boxing Challenge. The Pakistan Boxing Federation (PBF) has confirmed her remarkable progress as a sign of the growing potential in women’s boxing in the country.
A dual citizen of the UK and Pakistan, Akram opted to represent Pakistan in international competitions. She is also the reigning national champion, having won her title at the most recent national championship held in Karachi.
Upcoming Challenges
In the semifinals, Akram will face Michidmaa Erdenedalai of Mongolia. A victory would propel her into the final round, where the gold and silver medal winners will be determined.
Following this tournament, Akram is set to compete at the World Boxing Cup in Astana, Kazakhstan, scheduled from June 30 to July 6, before heading to Liverpool for the 2025 Women’s World Boxing Championships.
Building on Past Legacy
Prior to Akram’s accomplishment, Pakistan’s last world-level boxing medal was won by Noman Karim, who claimed a bronze at the 2003 World Championships. Akram’s achievement revives hopes for a stronger international presence in boxing for Pakistan—especially in the women’s category.
