(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Rising Rivalry in Lyari: Alia Soomro and Gohar Taj Set for Potential Showdown in Women’s Boxing
Karachi: The spotlight is firmly on Lyari — a neighborhood celebrated for its rich boxing legacy — as two of Pakistan’s promising female boxers, Alia Soomro and Gohar Taj, find themselves at the center of an emerging rivalry that could redefine the future of women’s boxing in the country.
The tension began building after 21-year-old Alia Soomro recently made headlines by declaring herself the first Pakistani female professional boxer to compete internationally. Alia, who hails from Lyari, shared news of her upcoming professional bout in Dubai, supported by the Sindh government, and noted her experience in international competition, including a title event in Thailand.
However, her announcement has drawn a strong response from 19-year-old Gohar Taj, a national silver medalist and gold medal winner at both Sindh and inter-provincial levels. In a widely circulated video message, Gohar confidently issued an open challenge to Alia.
Gohar, who also serves in the Pakistan Navy, questioned Alia’s claim to professional status, pointing out that her achievements have so far been limited to district-level competitions.
A Moment of Change for Women’s Boxing
While the rivalry may be personal, it also represents a broader moment of growth and visibility for women’s boxing in Pakistan. Both athletes share roots in Lyari, an area long known for producing some of the country’s most respected boxers and footballers. Now, it may soon host one of Pakistan’s most anticipated all-female matchups.
Sports enthusiasts and community members are hopeful that this rising competition will bring positive attention to the dedication and talent of female athletes, while inspiring more young women to enter the sport.
Key Highlights:
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Alia Soomro claims to be Pakistan’s first international professional female boxer.
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Gohar Taj, a decorated national boxer, has publicly challenged Alia to a bout.
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Both boxers are from Lyari, Karachi — a historic hub for Pakistani boxing talent.
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The potential bout could mark a significant milestone for women’s sports in Pakistan.
As excitement builds among fans and athletes alike, the nation’s boxing community eagerly awaits whether this challenge will lead to a historic encounter — one that could uplift female boxing and bring greater visibility to the sport across the country.
