President Tokayev Honors Kazakhstan’s World Boxing Champions at Award Ceremony

Astana, The Gulf Observer: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Thursday took part in an official award ceremony for the winners and prize-winners of the 2025 World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, where Kazakhstan emerged as the top nation among 68 participating countries.

Congratulating the national boxing team on their historic performance, the President hailed the achievement as a moment of pride for the entire nation. “Our anthem was played seven times during the championships and the national flag flew high above the arena. Our young men and women proved that they are truly the strongest in the homeland of boxing,” Tokayev said, commending the athletes for their dedication and years of hard work, according to Akorda.

The Head of State highlighted the outstanding contributions of the boxers, noting that Sanzhar Tashkenbay and Mahmud Sabyrkhan became two-time world champions, while Torekhan Sabyrkhan and Aibek Oralbay impressed fans with their exceptional skills. The women’s boxing team also excelled, with Alua Balkibekova, Aida Abikeyeva, and Natalya Bogdanova winning gold medals. Nazym Kyzaibay, who opened the competition for Kazakhstan, set the tone for victory, while Victoria Grafeyeva and Eldana Talipova added bronze medals to the tally.

President Tokayev expressed special gratitude to the coaches led by Kairat Sazhanov and Yeldos Saidali, as well as other professionals whose guidance and support contributed to the team’s success. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, the National Olympic Committee, and the Kazakhstan Boxing Federation for their substantial role in the country’s sporting achievements.

“Martial arts have always held a special place in our society. Kazakh boxing, founded by the renowned Shokyr Boltekuly, has a rich and unique history. Since the mid-20th century, many of our athletes have gained worldwide recognition. Of the 15 gold medals Kazakhstan has won at the Summer Olympics, seven were claimed by boxers. We believe this legacy will continue, as all the necessary conditions for future success are in place,” Tokayev said.

During the ceremony, the President presented state awards to several athletes and coaches in recognition of their outstanding accomplishments at the 2025 World Boxing Championships.