(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)

Nooh Dastagir Butt Wins Double Gold Despite Injury and Tough Competition

Pakistan’s strongman athlete Nooh Dastagir Butt has secured two gold medals at an international strongman competition in Uzbekistan, despite competing with a knee injury and facing opponents accused of doping.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallist added to his achievements at the Sixth International Pehalvon Mahmud Strongmen Games in Khiva and another event in Tashkent, showcasing impressive strength and endurance.

In Khiva, Nooh won gold in the Jalaluddin Sword Challenge by holding a 14kg sword vertically for 1 minute and 49 seconds. He later added another gold medal in a team strongman event in Tashkent, competing against athletes from multiple countries.

Nooh said he was not at full fitness due to a knee injury but still managed to perform strongly and secure medals for Pakistan.

He also highlighted the challenges faced in the sport, stating that many competitors rely on performance-enhancing substances, while he continues to compete as a clean athlete under regular testing protocols.

The athlete expressed frustration over Pakistan’s suspended weightlifting federation, which has prevented him from competing in his primary sport at international events. He said administrative issues and doping violations within the federation have significantly affected athletes’ careers.

Looking ahead, Nooh plans to compete in upcoming international strongman and powerlifting events, including the Arnold Classic Strongman competition and the 2029 World Games in Germany.