Sports have the power to produce amazing stories that reflect deep changes in the history of a country. These stories showcase the bravery and perseverance of legendary individuals who tirelessly work to represent their nation on the world stage in sports. Asghar Ali Changezi is one of these legends. With 32 accolades to his name, he has etched Pakistan’s name in the annals of international boxing history and continues to be a source of immense pride for his country.

Born in 1967 in Quetta, Pakistan, Changezi hailed from a Hazara family deeply rooted in athleticism and education. With two brothers and one sister, his upbringing was far from privileged, but his love for boxing knew no bounds. After school, in an eastern suburb of Quetta, he practised tirelessly, overcoming the lack of proper facilities with sheer determination.

At the tender age of nine, Changezi took his first step into the world of boxing. He often visited a neighbor’s house to catch the electrifying matches of the world boxing champion, Muhammad Ali. Watching Ali’s remarkable skills and heroism on the screen left an indelible mark on young Changezi. During those times, television wasn’t readily accessible to everyone, so Asghar relied on the hospitality of his neighbor’s home to witness these bouts.

Inspired by Muhammad Ali’s electrifying matches, Changezi developed a motivation to pursue boxing seriously. In 1978, he made his debut in the “All-Pakistan Amateur Boxing Tournament,” competing in the 36 kg weight category.

Unfortunately, this initial foray into the ring resulted in multiple physical injuries and defeat. However, it ignited his determination to strive for future gold medals.

Asghar Changezi encountered many challenges at the outset of his sporting journey. Proper nutrition was a luxury he couldn’t afford, and access to a well-equipped gymnasium was a distant dream. Despite these formidable obstacles, Asghar’s unwavering determination, boundless enthusiasm, and indomitable will propelled him towards his goals. He improved his boxing skills so remarkably that even his trainers admired his abilities.

Shabir Hussain, the manager of Asghar Chengezi, describes him as a responsible and dedicated individual who never wavers in his commitment to boxing. As the first one to arrive at training and the last to leave, Changezi’s passion for boxing shines through. He aimed to become a great boxer and a source of pride for Pakistan and the Hazara community. Shabir Hussain attests, “Changezi was a rare blend of character, athleticism, and sportsmanship. The first time I saw him, he left a lasting impression.”

According to Shabir Hussain, no tournament was taken lightly by Changezi. Each competition came with a meticulously crafted plan. With his towering stature and keen intellect, Changezi was a natural fit for the world of boxing.

Shabir Hussain further emphasises that despite attaining fame and popularity, Asghar Changezi remained refreshingly humble and devoid of arrogance.

Chengezi had the privilege of being mentored by some of the finest coaches throughout his illustrious boxing career. Among his early guides were Habibullah Jafari and Ali Juma Tata, who instilled foundational boxing skills in him. Additionally, Sayed Abrar Hussain Hazare, a close friend and sparring partner, played a pivotal role in shaping Asghar’s journey in boxing.

Asghar Changezi attributes his boundless motivation and enduring inspiration to these dedicated coaches. He credits his mentors as the defining force behind his professional transformation.

In addition to his coaches, General (retired) Musa Khan Hazara, Sardar Khair Mohammad Hazara, President of the Balochistan Boxing Association, and AIG (Retired) Faqir Hussain, Secretary General of the Balochistan Boxing Association also left indelible marks on Changezi’s professional trajectory. Their support provided emotional sustenance and professional guidance, contributing significantly to Changezi’s success.

Asghar Changezi proudly represented Pakistan in an impressive 32 international boxing tournaments. His journey to success took flight when he clinched his first gold medal at the World Championships, a hard-fought victory against formidable opponents from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Changezi’s illustrious career was studded with participation in prestigious events, including the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona. Furthermore, he proudly sported the colors of the Pakistani boxing team at the SAFF Games on five separate occasions, from Nepal in 1984 to India in 1995. His competence was showcased at the Asian Championships, Asian Games, Kings Cup Boxing Thailand in 1992, President Cup Boxing Jakarta in 1985, and the Mair Cup Boxing in the Philippines.

Changezi clinched gold medals in two International championships held in Karachi, Pakistan, in 1990 and 1993. Additionally, he secured a gold medal at the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) International Boxing Tournament in Islamabad in 1989, triumphed at the PAK-IRAN Boxing Tournament in Karachi in 1991, and emerged victorious at the Fajr Tournament in Iran in 1991.

He also represented Pakistan in the Acropolis Cup in Athens, Greece, in1990.

Asghar Changezi received training from renowned coaches throughout his illustrious career. Anwar Pasha, Jaan Baloch, Ali Bux, and Qadir Zaman played pivotal roles in improving his boxing skills.

As a coach, Asghar Changezi extended his expertise to many aspiring boxers in Balochistan. One of his most notable students, Muhammad Ali (Khamai), began his boxing journey under Asghar’s coaching at the age of 12. Asghar’s training and inspiration proved instrumental in propelling Muhammad Ali to the pinnacle of success in the world of boxing. Ali held his mentor in the highest regard, once stating, “Asghar Changezi was a unique sports coach and mentor who treated his students like his own children.”

Asghar Changezi’s persona is characterised by honesty and competence, a fact underscored by Muhammad Ali. He consistently and transparently imparts his skills and experiences to his students, instilling in them self-confidence. This approach has had a profound impact on the personal development of his students.

Muhammad Ali, currently employed as a bank manager at one of the National Bank of Pakistan’s branches, attributes much of his personal and professional success to Changezi’s mentorship. Ali acknowledges that his role at the bank today is a direct result of Changezi’s guidance, which nurtured his passion for sports and emphasised the importance of striking a balance with formal education. Muhammad Ali holds deep gratitude for Changezi and acknowledges the valuable life lessons he received, with Changezi’s mantra “study first, then sports” firmly etched in his mind.

Ali fondly recalls a story from a boxing competition in Uzbekistan in 2015, where Asghar Changezi prepared him precisely, imparting essential boxing skills and techniques. According to Muhammad Ali, Asghar Changezi was a dedicated coach who believed in his potential and prepared him thoroughly for the competition.

Changezi’s boxing career is a testament to his remarkable achievements, having secured 44 medals in international and domestic boxing tournaments. Among these accolades, he boasts 22 gold medals, 8 silver medals, and 14 bronze medals, showcasing his competence in the ring.

Notably, Asghar Changezi played a pivotal role as an integral member of Pakistan’s national boxing team, serving as its captain for a remarkable five-year period from 1992 to 1996. His dedication and leadership were further recognised when he was awarded the prestigious Best Boxer Award at the 1984 SAFF Games held in Nepal. It’s worth mentioning that only two Pakistani boxers, Asghar Ali Changezi and Hussain Shah, secured a hat-trick by winning gold medals three times at the SAFF Games.

Changezi’s journey began at 16 when he was first selected for the Pakistan team in 1983, marking his debut at the “Invitational International Boxing Tournament Nepal,” where he clinched a silver medal. Under the astute selection of Anwar Chowdhry, Changezi and his close friend and sparring partner, Syed Abrar Hussain, were selected to represent Pakistan in boxing. Together, they both went on to win several gold medals and honors for Pakistan.

According to Changezi, two iconic neighborhoods in Pakistan that have made significant contributions to the Pakistan boxing team are Alamdar Road in Quetta and Lyari in Karachi. These areas have a deep-rooted passion for boxing and have produced talented athletes who have gained recognition nationally and internationally.

Following his retirement, Asghar Ali Changezi received the prestigious “Pride of Performance” Presidential Award on March 23, 1997, presented by Pakistan’s then-President, Farooq Laghari.

Embarking on a new chapter in his life, Changezi furthered his professional training and education, shifting his career path to join law enforcement. Today, he serves as a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Balochistan, boasting a Master’s degree in Political Science.

Asghar Ali Changezi’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to international boxing glory embodies the indomitable human spirit. With 32 accolades to his name, he has made Pakistan proud and etched his name in the annals of boxing history. Born in Quetta in 1967, his passion for boxing was kindled by watching the legendary Muhammad Ali on a neighbour’s TV. Changezi’s unwavering determination propelled him to success despite limited resources and challenges. He not only became a champion but also a respected coach, imparting life lessons to young athletes. Changezi’s story inspires all, demonstrating the power of determination, hard work, and belief in one’s dreams.