Raipur, Chhattisgarh – July 20, 2025
After battling some of India’s toughest competitors at the Seniors and Masters National Kickboxing Championship, held at Balbir Singh Juneja Stadium in Raipur from July 16 to 20, Indian kickboxing champion Sudhir Saxena walked away with a hard-earned bronze medal—and a deeper sense of purpose.
We sat down with Sudhir shortly after his win for a candid conversation on his journey, his motivation, and what lies ahead.
🗣 Q: First of all, congratulations on the bronze medal. How does it feel to be back on the national podium?
Sudhir Saxena:
Thank you so much. It feels great—not just for the medal, but for what it represents. Every tournament is another test of your discipline, your patience, and your willpower. Standing on the podium again reminds me of why I started this journey in the first place. It’s not just about personal achievement; it’s about carrying the hopes of everyone who believes in you.
🗣 Q: Let’s talk about the competition. How did the bouts go for you in Raipur?
Sudhir:
It was intense. The level of competition this year was very high. Every opponent brought something unique. I had to dig deep—mentally and physically. But I trusted my training and experience. That’s what helped me push through to the medal round.
🗣 Q: Who has been behind your preparation for this tournament?
Sudhir:
A long list of people, honestly. First and foremost, my coach Yoginder Singh—his training and mentorship have been rock solid. I’m also extremely thankful to Mr. Vijay Kumar, AGM of Punjab National Bank, who has always believed in me. PNB as an organization has supported me wholeheartedly, and I’ll always be grateful.
Another important presence during this event was Vijay Singh Sisodia Sir. His support during the championship gave me the mental strength I needed.
🗣 Q: And what about your family?
Sudhir:
My family is the reason I can fight with a clear mind. My father, Mr. Suresh Saxena, has always taught me to stay grounded and focused. And my wife, Priyanka Gautam, is my biggest emotional support. Her faith in me never wavers, no matter the challenges. I also want to thank my close friends like Mayank Madhur, Mahesh Verma, and Summit Chaudhry—they’ve all stood by me through thick and thin.
🗣 Q: You often talk about giving back. Tell us more about your work outside the ring.
Sudhir:
Definitely. Medals are temporary, but impact lasts. I actively work with Gauravi Foundation and other NGOs on projects related to youth development, sports awareness, and rural outreach. I also promote blood donation, health camps, and self-defense workshops in underprivileged communities. I’m trying to use my visibility as an athlete to create meaningful change.
🗣 Q: Coming from Lahasani, a small village in Ballia, to this national platform—what does that journey mean to you?
Sudhir:
It means everything. Lahasani made me who I am. There were no fancy gyms, no elite trainers. But I had purpose. That’s what got me here. I want every child in rural India to know—they don’t need to be born in a city to dream big. Their background doesn’t define their future. I’m living proof of that.
🗣 Q: What’s next for you after this medal?
Sudhir:
No resting. I’ll get back to training soon and prepare for upcoming international tournaments. I’m also working on opening a sports and fitness center in rural Uttar Pradesh to nurture local talent. The goal is not just to build athletes, but to build strong, confident individuals.
🗣 Q: Last question—what message would you give to young Indians who look up to you?
Sudhir:
Stay humble. Stay hungry. Don’t wait for the perfect time or perfect place—start where you are, with what you have. Believe in yourself even when no one else does. And remember, real strength is not just in the fists—it’s in the heart and the mind.
✨ Conclusion
Sudhir Saxena continues to prove that true champions fight not just for medals, but for meaning. With another national medal under his belt and a heart full of service, he’s not only rewriting his own destiny—but inspiring countless others to rise above limitations.
India salutes you, Sudhir. Onward and upward.
About the Author
