Kapil Pokhriya Vows to Turn Asian Games Success into Olympic Triumph

Bronze at the Asian Games was a decisive moment for Uttarakhand’s Kapil Pokhriya, who fought his way to a podium finish in the 90‑kg class after a disappointing Commonwealth Games campaign.

After a hard‑fought semi‑final defeat to Uzbekistan’s Turbek Khabibullov, Pokhriya met with his coach to dissect the bout and outline a corrective training plan. He emphasized that the upcoming camp will focus on the shortcomings revealed in that match.

His eyes are now set on the 2027 World Boxing Championships, where he intends to win a medal for India. Success there, he believes, will pave the way to Olympic qualification for Paris 2024.

Talking about the pressure he felt at the Asian Games, Pokhriya said the fear of repeating his Commonwealth mistake kept him on edge. The bronze medal, however, eased that anxiety and strengthened his resolve to chase the ultimate Olympic prize.