Amman (TDI): In a landmark achievement for Pakistani sports, Bano Butt secured the gold medal in the 48 kg category at the 9th Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship held in Amman from May 23 to 25, 2025.
Her victory over India’s Richa Sharma in the final not only highlights her exceptional talent but also symbolizes the rising prominence of Pakistani women in combat sports.
The event brought together athletes from across the continent, providing a competitive platform for regional talent in the sport of Jiu-Jitsu.
Bano’s journey to the top was marked by resilience and determination. After a hard-fought semifinal against Thailand’s Sugun Nutchaya, she showcased remarkable composure and skill to triumph over the experienced Indian contender in the final.
This achievement adds to Bano Butt’s record of success in international martial arts competitions. She previously won a gold medal at the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Asian Championship and claimed victory at the ADCC Thailand Grappling Event.
Read More: Pakistani E-sports Legend Arsalan Ash Secures Victory at LVL UP EXPO 2025
Beyond her personal accolades, Bano’s success is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes, especially young women in Pakistan. She has consistently broken barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport, challenging societal norms and encouraging others to pursue their passions fearlessly.
Her ultimate ambition is to become Pakistan’s first UFC World Champion, a goal she pursues with unwavering dedication.
The Pakistani team’s overall performance at the championship was commendable, securing one gold and multiple bronze medals. Athletes Kainat Arif and Isra Waseem earned bronze in the team categories, while Ali Rashid and Yousaf Ali added to the tally in the men’s events.
Bano Butt’s win adds to the growing list of international accomplishments by Pakistani athletes, marking another step forward in the country’s evolving presence in regional sports competitions.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
