Kaur Singh: The Forgotten Indian Boxer Who Battled Ali

Remembering the Olympian and War Hero Who Faced “The Greatest”

Indian boxing history often highlights stars like Dingko Singh, Vijender Singh, and Mary Kom. However, one name is frequently overlooked: Kaur Singh. He was the only Indian boxer to trade blows with the legendary Muhammad Ali.

A Soldier’s Valor, A Boxer’s Spirit

Born in 1948, Kaur Singh grew up in rural Punjab. He joined the Indian Army in 1971, where he distinguished himself in the second India-Pakistan war. He received the Sena Medal for bravery.

The skills honed on the battlefield soon found a new outlet in the boxing ring. He became one of the nation’s top boxers of his era.

From National Champion to Olympian

Kaur Singh’s boxing journey began in 1977 while in the Indian Army. In 1979, he won the heavyweight division at the Senior National Boxing Championships. He held the national champion title until 1983.

He achieved international recognition, winning gold at the 1980 Asian Championships and the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi. He was honored with the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri in 1983.

Facing “The Greatest”

The most significant moment in Kaur Singh’s boxing career came when he faced Muhammad Ali in an exhibition match in 1980 in Delhi. A crowd of 50,000 witnessed this historic event.

“Us de mukke bahut hi dumdar si (Ali’s punches had great power). I clearly remember that jab, his famous jab. It seemed to come out of nowhere. He used his right hand to block my punches, and his counterpunch to hit me,”

—Kaur Singh

Following his retirement, Kaur Singh returned to farming. Later, he faced financial difficulties. The Indian Army and Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan provided support. The Boxing Federation of India also offered assistance. Boxing’s popularity in India continues to grow. It is estimated that over 100 million people watch boxing matches each year (Source 2024).

Legacy and Remembrance

Kaur Singh died in April 2023 at 74. The Punjab government included his story in the school curriculum. His journey was also depicted in a biopic, “Padma Shri Kaur Singh,” released in 2022.

Kaur Singh’s life embodies the spirit of a soldier and an athlete, representing courage and determination in the face of adversity.