In an inspiring display of athletic prowess, Yasam Koti Naga Babu has captured two bronze medals at the 2024 Asian Seniors Kickboxing Championship, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from October 6 to October 13. Competing in the senior male categories, Yasam secured third place in both the Lite Contact (-84 kg) and Kicklight (-84 kg) events. His remarkable performance has brought pride to India, highlighting his journey as one of the nation’s most promising kickboxers.
A Rising Star in Kickboxing
At just 21 years old, Yasam has made significant strides in the world of kickboxing, showcasing his talents on both national and international stages. Hailing from AdavulaDeevi village in Andhra Pradesh, his dedication and passion for the sport have led him to achieve impressive results in a relatively short span of time. His dual bronze medal victory at the Asian Championship is a testament to his hard work, technical skills, and competitive spirit.
This recent accomplishment adds to a successful year for Yasam, following his participation in the International Kickboxing Tournament in New Delhi earlier in February 2024. At that event, he secured two bronze medals in the Kicklight (-74 kg) and Creative Form categories and a fifth-place finish in the Lite Contact (-74 kg) event. Yasam’s consistency and versatility have established him as a formidable competitor among his peers.
Community Support and Sponsorship
Yasam’s journey to the international podium has been supported by a dedicated group of sponsors and mentors. Key figures such as Sri Tulasi Rama Chandra Prabhu, chairman of the Tulasi Group of Companies in Andhra Pradesh, have played an instrumental role in providing the resources necessary for Yasam to focus on his training and competitions. Additionally, senior politician Uggirala Seetharamaiah and philanthropist Lanka Basava Purnamma have extended their support, enabling Yasam to dedicate his time and energy to the sport.
Expressing gratitude for this support, Yasam remarked, “I am immensely thankful for the backing I have received from my sponsors and community. Their belief in my potential motivates me to push my limits and represent India with pride.”
Elite Training for Elite Performance
To prepare for high-level competitions like the Asian Championship, Yasam participated in the 7th International Kickboxing Training Camp held in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, in April 2024. This prestigious camp, aimed at developing elite athletes, featured coaching from internationally renowned trainers, including Serbia’s Miodrag Jotic and Italian coaches Manuel Nordio and Marco Ferrarese. Their expertise provided Yasam with invaluable insights into advanced kickboxing techniques, strategy, and conditioning.
The camp’s rigorous training sessions focused on enhancing physical endurance, refining techniques, and developing mental resilience, all critical elements for success in competitive kickboxing. Yasam credits this training for his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to the various challenges he faced at the Asian Championship.
Vision for the Future
Yasam’s journey is not just about personal achievement; it embodies a larger vision for Indian kickboxing. He aims to inspire a new generation of athletes and elevate India’s status in the international kickboxing community. His recent accomplishments are a stepping stone toward his goal of competing at the highest levels, including the upcoming World Games in 2025 in China.
“I want to show that with dedication and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams,” Yasam shared. “I hope my success encourages other young athletes to pursue their passions and strive for excellence.”
Consistent National Performance
Yasam’s success isn’t limited to international competitions. In July 2024, he participated in the National Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters held in Goa, where he placed fifth in the Low Kick Ring (-81 kg) category. His ongoing performance in national tournaments illustrates his commitment to developing his skills and competing at all levels.
Yasam’s journey began in local tournaments, where his talent quickly garnered attention. Supported by his family and community in AdavulaDeevi, he has worked tirelessly to hone his craft and make a name for himself in the sport.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for the Next Challenge
With the recent victories at the Asian Championship, Yasam is already focusing on the challenges that lie ahead. His rigorous training schedule, combined with the guidance from his coaches and sponsors, positions him well for upcoming competitions. The anticipation of competing in global tournaments motivates Yasam to elevate his performance further and continue representing India on the international stage.
Yasam Koti Naga Babu’s story is a compelling narrative of determination, resilience, and ambition. His achievements at the Asian Championship are not just personal milestones but a source of inspiration for aspiring kickboxers across India. As he continues to forge his path in the world of kickboxing, Yasam is not only setting high standards for himself but also for the future of Indian martial arts.
