In an interview with a Turmush correspondent, Islam talked about how his sports journey began in the second grade, which was made possible thanks to his father's support.
He studied at the A. Karymshakov school until the 7th grade and is now continuing his education at a sports school in Bishkek.
“I was born in 2010, and this May I will turn 16. I am the oldest of four children in the family. I started my first boxing training in the second grade, during my free time from studies, in an old gym. My first coach, Kuban Egebaev, still supports me at tournaments. When I moved to the 6th grade, my motivation increased, and I began participating in various competitions — regional, national, and international. In the 8th grade, I transferred to the sports school in Bishkek, where I continue my studies and actively compete in tournaments,” he shared.
Islam emphasizes that his father's support had a significant impact on his aspirations, and he hopes to become a world champion.
“My father died in a car accident three years ago. When he was alive, he always said: 'You will become a strong boxer and raise the flag of Kyrgyzstan.' These words inspired me, and I set a goal to participate in competitions in Karakol, Jalal-Abad, Osh, as well as tournaments in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Even in difficult times, when we had no money, my parents did not spare expenses for my development — they covered travel and accommodation costs,” he added.
“My first coach is always there for me; he knows my dreams and helps me in tough moments. When I made the decision to transfer to the sports school, my mom supported me,” noted the young boxer.
In his studies, Islam enjoys algebra and geometry.
“In my free time, I try to study Russian and English. However, we have almost no days off, as we constantly train and engage in physical preparation in the mountains. In the sports school, the training is more intense,” Islam explained.
Sometimes Munarbek aga, a participant in the world championship, comes to visit them and shares his experience. This may have helped me at the recent national tournament, where I won against my opponents in the 48 kg weight category in three rounds and earned a spot at the Asian championship in May. At that moment, I remembered my father's words, which gave me strength.
My main goal is to become a world champion, participate in the Olympic Games, and bring glory to my country,” Islam concluded.
