PM Modi Laughs at Boxer Narender’s Pakistani Opponent Joke After Commonwealth Silver

Delhi – Following India’s record‑breaking performance at the Commonwealth Games 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the athletes on Sunday. Among the visitors was silver‑medallist boxer Narender, who narrated a funny episode from his earlier military‑games experience.

Narender recounted that his debut bout at the 2015 World Military Games was against a Pakistani boxer. Prior to the fight, army officials warned him, "Do not lose to Pakistan." He emerged victorious in the opening round with a 4‑1 score, but the second round turned chaotic when both fighters’ heads collided, causing cuts that required hospital treatment.

After learning that the Prime Minister, the boxer’s coach, and himself all shared the name Narender, the Pakistani opponent allegedly said, "I hate the name Narender now." The story elicited loud laughter from PM Modi.

In the Commonwealth Games, Narender fought in the 90+ kg category, earning silver after a 0‑5 defeat to England’s Damon Thomas in the final. Although he fell short of gold, India’s boxers collectively added ten medals to the nation’s impressive tally.