Former CWG boxing champion Manoj Kumar retires to pursue coaching
Former CWG boxing champion Manoj Kumar retires to pursue coaching
Former Commonwealth Games gold-winning boxer Manoj Kumar, who dominated India’s light welterweight (64kg) division at his peak, announced his retirement on Thursday to pursue a coaching career.
The 39-year-old won CWG gold at the 2010 Delhi Games and bronze at the 2018 Gold Coast Games. A two-time Asian Championships bronze medallist, he also competed at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Olympics, reaching the pre-quarterfinals in both.
“It’s a well-considered decision. Once I turn 40, I can’t compete in amateur events under international rules. I retire content, having represented my country to the best of my ability,” said Manoj.
He began boxing in 1997 and completed his coaching diploma at the National Institute of Sports, Patiala, in 2021. Injuries and selection disputes curtailed his India career post-2018.
He now plans to focus on his academy in Kurukshetra, set up with his elder brother and long-time coach, Rajesh Kumar.
“Retiring is deeply emotional. Without Rajesh sir, I wouldn’t be an Olympian. He made me dream big and overcome every obstacle,” he said.
“This academy will help us share our experiences with young athletes, who will one day win Olympic medals for India.”
