Aqib Fiaz's Boxing Gym Making A Change In Community

Aqib Fiaz's Boxing Gym Making A Change In Community

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Oldham's boxing champion, Aqib Fiaz and his team of volunteers are making a positive change in the community through their gym, Nxt Gen ABC.

Aqib has had 15 fights - one loss and 14 victories. He has become an inspiration for up-and-coming boxers in Oldham.

He is the first professional Asian boxer from Oldham.

The gym was relocated from Hathershaw to the former Pakistani community centre in Glodwick.

Their aim is to get young people and children off the streets, away from the temptation of drug and alcohol misuse and drug dealers.

They provide a platform where fighters can grow and better themselves.

They have 400 members from a wide variety of backgrounds. They teach the importance of discipline and respect for others.

One of their coaches, Paul, has produced 30 champions throughout his coaching career.

Aqib's brother Asim said there should be boxing gyms on every street of Oldham.

"We have had four regional champions and two national finalists. Our plan is to create many champions. We expect a national champion in the next 12 months," he said, "We have so many people behind us including volunteers without who all this wouldn't be possible."

Aqib was recently awarded the mayor’s appreciation award and is preparing for the European championships.

He said: “In our community, drug abuse is rife. We need to set up activities which youngsters can engage in rather than spending time on street corners and getting up to no good. We need more youth centres, football clubs and regular extra-curricular activities."

An 18-year-old fighter said: I used to get into a lot of street fights, so I wanted to learn how to defend myself and learn how to control my anger."

 

 

 

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