With determination in their hearts and months of intense preparation behind them, six of Bhutan’s finest young boxers have arrived in Bangkok to compete in the prestigious Asian U-19 and U-22 Boxing Championships 2025. The tournament, which kicks off tomorrow at the Indoor Stadium Huamark, features nearly 400 boxers from over 25 nations.
The Bhutanese team, led by veteran coach Girchungla, departed for Thailand yesterday morning, brimming with ambition and national pride. For many, the competition marks not only a test of skill, but a chance to elevate Bhutan’s presence on the continental boxing stage.
Among the team is 21-year-old Tashi Yoezer from Lhuentse, who will fight in the 55 kg category. A seasoned athlete, Tashi already boasts gold medals from a boxing friendly in Nepal and the Four Nations Boxing Championship held in Thimphu earlier this year.
“We can’t guarantee victory, but we are confident in our preparation,” Tashi said. “All of us are experienced boxers, and we are ready to give our best in the ring.”
Fellow gold medalist Kinley, also 21 and hailing from Trongsa, will represent Bhutan in the 65 kg division. He echoed Tashi’s optimism, adding, “After the Four Nations Championship, we’ve trained intensively. I’m aiming to win at least two to three matches.”
Another promising contender is 20-year-old Kinley Phuntsho, also from Lhuentse. Competing in the 50 kg category, Kinley is entering the ring with a gold medal from the Joint Training and Friendship Tournament held in Bangladesh.
“I got this opportunity thanks to the Bhutan Olympic Committee and my own hard work,” he said. “I have a real passion for boxing.”
Nineteen-year-old Dechen Dorji of Monggar is set to fight in the 60 kg division and is determined to make a strong international impression. “We’ve all trained hard. Our coach has taught us solid techniques, and we’re ready for this challenge,” he said.
Bhutan’s hopes in the U-19 women’s category rest on 18-year-old Zigdal Zangmo from Samtse, who will compete in the 51 kg class. She brings with her a silver medal from the recent Four Nations Championship.
“This is my first Asian Championship. The competition will be tough, but I will fight with full determination,” she said.
Also making his international debut is 18-year-old Jampel Chedup, who will enter the U-19 60 kg category. Despite the demands of school, Jampel has managed to juggle academics with daily training.
“I can’t say whether I’ll win or lose,” he said, “but I will give it everything I’ve got.”
Coach Girchungla, who has been guiding the young team for months, expressed confidence in their readiness. “We have trained these athletes continuously. I’ve shared everything I know, and I believe they are ready to compete on equal footing with anyone in Asia.”
As Bhutan steps into one of the continent’s most competitive boxing events, these six athletes are not just fighting for medals—they’re fighting to prove that Bhutan belongs on the map of Asian boxing.
