Kapil Pokhariya: From homemade training bags to Asian Games 90kg bronze
Boxing
Indian Army havaldar Kapil Pokhariya won bronze in the men’s 90kg boxing category at the 2026 Asian Games.
He grew up in a small Uttarakhand village and trained by punching homemade bags filled with mountain soil.
Inspired by WWE star Roman Reigns and nicknamed ‘Khatima ka Russell’ for his big-hitting prowess, Pokhariya reflects on his childhood, his father’s support, his Army journey and his dream of Olympic glory.