Dewsbury boxing star Malaika breaking down barriers in reaching national final

Malaika’s outstanding ability enabled her to reach the championship finals in Kettering.

And in a hard fought female senior 80kg plus final the boxer from the Warrior Breed gym in Earlsheaton was unlucky to narrowly miss out on a gold medal in a bout against Kyra Hannibal, from Scours Lane, that many believed she had done enough to win.

Afterwards Malaika talked about how she feels proud to represent Yorkshire and in particular the town of Dewsbury with her exploits at national level.

She has spent hours and hours preparing for the championships, training two or three times a day to get to the level she has reached.

"The training is very hard, I have stayed focussed and I am proud to be number two in England in the development championships,” said Malaika.

Her main focus is to be seeded number one in her weight division, which is the biggest for female amateur boxers.

But it is not easy as in this division there are few competitors, with Malaika struggling to find bouts that can challenge her and help her progress.

Malaika has made history, however, as she is the first-ever Pakistani heritage female heavyweight to box in the national finals and the first from her local area.

She said: "This is something I feel proud of and proud to have done much for breaking down barriers for female boxing.

"I have faced many barriers and challenges so far in my boxing career, but I am determined and focussed to carry on and succeed in this male dominated sport.

"I have not only racial, but gender and cultural discrimination, which makes me even more determined to carry on.”

Despite the challenges Malaika highlights the positives and feels that she has become somewhat of a role model to many.

She has had messages of support and encouragement from many females and males alike and many have asked for help and advice.

The talented young boxer faces a busy schedule, trying to fit in her final year of an accountancy degree with the rigours of boxing life as well as coaching youngsters in boxing classes at her gym.

"To achieve success in life, you need to work hard and stay focussed," explained Malaika.

"Trying to fit all this in my life is a big challenge. But I always wanted to try boxing, to focus her energy into something positive after having issues at school.

"My desire is to eventually represent England in amateur boxing – that would be a dream come true.

“Boxing is my love and passion, I know I can help, motivate, support many from this – the degree is back-up plan.”

Malaika has expressed her ambition to also turn professional one day and make history not only for herself but also for her local area.

However, boxing is a sport which requires much support from sponsors, to help her with her everyday finances. Behind the scenes it more than just hard work, but financial backing and fans support is key to achieve success.

Some professional promoters have already shown interest in her journey, but she wants just take one fight at a time and wants to thank everybody for their continued support.

Any businesses that would like to support this young athlete’s journey, contact via email to [email protected]