The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The capital city, Thimphu, came alive with excitement as it proudly hosted the Four-Nation International Boxing Tournament from 11th to 13th April. The event featured teams from Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, and turned into a powerful display of skill, determination, and regional sportsmanship.
Organized by the Bhutan Boxing Federation (BBF) with support from the Royal Bhutan Army and the Bhutan Olympic Committee, the tournament aimed to promote boxing in Bhutan, offer local athletes’ international exposure, and strengthen cross-border sporting ties. It followed a four-day joint training camp between all four nations, which helped athletes build bonds, sharpen techniques, and prepare mentally and physically for the competition.
Previously coming off a successful training camp in Kathmandu, Nepal—where BBF boxers secured 11 medals including four golds—Bhutanese athletes entered the Thimphu tournament with confidence and readiness. The training in Nepal had pitted them against strong contenders from the Nepal national team, Nepal Police, Nepal Army, and Boxmandu Club, providing valuable experience ahead of the home event.
The first two days of the tournament in Thimphu drew enthusiastic crowds who packed the venue to support the home team. Bhutanese boxers made a strong start, showcasing discipline, sharp technique, and fighting spirit. Their early victories lifted the morale of the BBF camp and set a competitive tone for the rest of the tournament. The matches were intense, with athletes from Bhutan facing off against opponents from India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Boxers like Tandin Wangchuk and Kinley impressed early on with confident performances, securing spots in the finals. As the competition progressed into the second day, the pressure increased, but the Bhutanese team maintained their momentum. Kinley Yangden and Tashi Yoezer stood out with commanding wins against tough opponents, while a few close losses reminded the team of the tournament’s high standards. Overall, the strong results from the first two days positioned Bhutan well for the medal rounds on the final day.
The third and final day of the tournament was especially thrilling for Bhutan. Chimmi Wangmo lost to India’s Yashika Rai and earned a silver medal. Zigdal Zangmo also secured silver after a close fight with Nepal’s Aarati Bhumjan. Migma Dorji brought a strong win for Bhutan by defeating Lal Prasad Upreti of Nepal. Norbu Dema put up a tough performance but fell to Asmita Duwal of Nepal, winning a silver.
Kinga Wangmo won gold after an impressive bout against Sapkotaashsani Kumari of India. In a match that highlighted Bhutan’s growing talent, Sangay Choden won gold against fellow Bhutanese boxer Sonam Choden, who received silver. Kinley Yangden added to the medal tally with a victory over India’s Pema Omngu Bhimutia, and another gold came from Kinley who defeated Sawan Subba of India. Tandin Wangchuk continued his strong streak, winning gold against India’s Pravin Chettri. Tashi Lham earned silver after a match against Nepal’s Barsha Shrestha, and the day ended on a high note with Tashi Yoezer clinching gold against Prabal Uprety of Nepal.
Tashi Yoezer, one of the standout performers of the event, shared his thoughts before the tournament began. “This is an opportunity where we should feel happy and honored that we are representing our country,” he said. He also added, “It will give inspiration to our young talents, our youths.” His words reflected the deep sense of pride among Bhutanese athletes and the larger purpose behind hosting such international events—to motivate and build the next generation of sportspeople in Bhutan.
By the end of the tournament, Team Bhutan emerged as the most successful, winning a total of 16 medals—7 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze. India followed with 8 medals (2 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze), Nepal secured 9 medals (3 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze), and Bangladesh ended with 4 medals (1 gold and 3 bronze).
The tournament’s success marks a significant step forward for boxing in Bhutan. It has not only improved the performance and morale of local boxers, but also highlighted the country’s growing capability to host international sports events. The competition addressed some of the key challenges Bhutanese athletes face, including the need for more sparring partners, exposure to diverse fighting styles, and experience under pressure.
For many participants, this event was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of hard work, national pride, and the power of sport to bring people together. As interest in boxing grows among Bhutanese youth, events like this will continue to play an essential role in shaping the country’s sporting future.
With continued support from institutions and strong performances from young athletes, Bhutan’s boxing community is now aiming higher, looking forward to more international success and greater opportunities for its rising stars.
