Laura Akram Wins Pakistan's First Women’s Boxing Medal

In a landmark moment for Pakistani sport and women’s boxing, Laura Akram, a 39-year-old British‑Pakistani boxer, has clinched the nation’s first-ever world-level medal in elite women’s boxing. By storming into the semifinals of the prestigious World Boxing Challenge at the Grand Prix Ústí nad Labem, she has secured an Olympic-style bronze medal, guaranteed upon reaching the top four.

• Laura triumphed in the 57 kg category, defeating Noura Salman (Palestine) with a decisive 5–0 unanimous decision in the quarterfinals.

• This landmark semifinal berth secures at least a bronze medal, marking Pakistan’s inaugural podium finish at any elite women’s boxing world event.

• A treasured moment for the 39-year-old, who pledged allegiance to Pakistan’s boxing program in 2023.

• Laura, a national champion, has rapidly ascended to prominence within Pakistani boxing circles.

• Her dominant quarterfinal showcased her experience and grit against a younger opponent. 

• Next up: Michidmaa Erdenedalai (Mongolia) in today’s semifinal clash at the Winter Stadium in Ústí nad Labem. 

• The Grand Prix Ústí nad Labem, organised by the Czech Boxing Association, marks its 100th anniversary this year. 

• Now in its second year as a World Boxing Challenge, it draws 184 boxers from 23 countries across women’s and men’s divisions.

• Taking place June 11–14, the tournament acts as a major competitive platform ahead of the 2026 World Championships in Liverpool.

• A breakthrough moment in a nation where female participation in combat sports has long faced cultural and logistical hurdles.

• Sends a powerful message for gender equality in sports and opens doors for future female athletes.

• Raises Pakistan’s standing on the global women’s boxing map, boosting visibility and support.

• Born and trained in London, Laura switched allegiance to Pakistan in 2023.

• Quickly ascended national ranks to become the Pakistan national champion. 

• At 39, she defies age norms—combining maturity, power, and resilience in the ring.

• Today, Laura faces Mongolia’s Erdenedalai in the semifinal Round 57 kg. A win would secure a silver final, but a loss still guarantees the historic bronze. 

• After Ústí nad Labem, attention shifts to the World Boxing Cup in Astana (30 June–6 July), then onto the 2026 World Championships in Liverpool.

Laura Akram’s remarkable journey from London to pioneering achievement under Pakistan’s flag marks a turning point in the country’s sporting narrative. Her success in Ústí nad Labem not only delivers a historic medal but also sets the stage for greater female participation and achievement in boxing.