Boxing Community Mourns the Loss of Manoj Kumar

The Indian boxing fraternity is reeling from the loss of Manoj Kumar, a stalwart of the sport whose achievements brought immense pride to the nation. Known for his unwavering commitment, technical skill, and sportsmanship, Kumar’s passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian boxing.

A Career of Determination and Glory

Hailing from Kaithal, Haryana, Manoj Kumar stepped into the boxing ring in 1997 as a young and determined junior athlete. Over the years, he rose through the ranks to become a dominant presence in the light welterweight (64kg) category. His most memorable triumph came at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, where he captured the gold medal on home soil—an achievement that cemented his status as a national hero.

Eight years later, he added another feather to his cap with a bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast, Australia. Kumar also made his mark on the continental stage, winning two bronze medals at the Asian Championships.

While Olympic glory narrowly eluded him, his appearances at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games highlighted his stature as one of India’s elite boxers. Reaching the pre-quarterfinals in both editions, Kumar stood tall among international competition, representing the tricolor with pride and determination.

From Boxer to Mentor

In January 2025, at the age of 39, Kumar formally announced his retirement from competitive boxing. Far from stepping away from the sport, he transitioned seamlessly into a mentorship role, dedicating himself to nurturing the next generation.

Alongside his elder brother and longtime coach, Rajesh Kumar, he launched a boxing academy in Kurukshetra, Haryana. The academy was more than a training center—it was a dream realized. Built on years of experience and hard-earned wisdom, the facility quickly became a beacon for aspiring young boxers in the region.

Kumar’s passion for the sport translated into his coaching. He was not just training athletes; he was shaping characters, building discipline, and instilling the values that had guided his own journey.

A Legacy That Lives On

Beyond the medals and accolades, Manoj Kumar’s influence on Indian boxing was profound. A vocal advocate for athlete rights, he worked tirelessly to improve conditions for boxers and to strengthen the infrastructure of the sport at grassroots and professional levels.

His efforts were not confined to the ring—he was a role model who stood for integrity, perseverance, and national pride. Through his academy, he continued to mentor and motivate, leaving an indelible mark on the future of Indian boxing.

As tributes pour in from across the country, the sentiment is unanimous: Indian boxing has lost a legend. But even in his absence, Kumar’s spirit endures—in the young athletes he coached, in the reforms he championed, and in the countless lives he touched.

Manoj Kumar’s story is one of grit, heart, and unwavering dedication. His passing leaves a void in the sporting world, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.