In a thrilling show of skill and determination, Indian kickboxer Yasam Koti Naga Babu has claimed two bronze medals at the highly competitive Asian Seniors Kickboxing Championship 2024, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from October 6 to October 13. Competing in the senior male Lite Contact (-84 kg) and Kicklight (-84 kg) categories, Yasam’s podium finishes have brought pride to India and affirmed his standing as a rising star in the international kickboxing community.
At just 21, Yasam’s achievements underscore his dedication to the sport and his commitment to representing India on the global stage. Facing fierce competition from elite kickboxers across Asia, Yasam’s performance reflects his hard work, technical expertise, and unbreakable focus, qualities that have defined his journey as an international athlete.
Breaking Through on the International Stage
Yasam, a native of AdavulaDeevi village in Andhra Pradesh, is making a name for himself as one of India’s most promising kickboxers. Known for his fierce dedication and adaptability, Yasam has already established himself through several key tournaments. His journey this year began in New Delhi at the International Kickboxing Tournament 2024, held in February. Competing across multiple categories, Yasam won two bronze medals in the Kicklight (-74 kg) and Creative Form events and placed fifth in the Lite Contact (-74 kg) category. These results reinforced his potential and versatility, setting him up for his impressive success at the Asian Championship in Phnom Penh.
Support from Key Sponsors and Mentors
Yasam’s journey to the international podium has been supported by an inspiring group of sponsors and mentors. Chief among them is Sri Tulasi Rama Chandra Prabhu, chairman of the Tulasi Group of Companies in Andhra Pradesh, who has been instrumental in supporting Yasam’s ambitions and training needs. Senior politician Uggirala Seetharamaiah and philanthropist Lanka Basava Purnamma have also provided crucial support, helping Yasam focus fully on his rigorous training and intense preparation for tournaments.
Acknowledging the importance of this support, Yasam shared, “Without the faith and support of my sponsors and community, this journey would not have been possible. They have empowered me to pursue my dream of representing India and pushing myself to new heights.”
Elevating His Game Through Advanced Training
To prepare for elite competitions like the Asian Championship, Yasam has sought out world-class training opportunities. This year, he attended the 7th International Kickboxing Training Camp in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, from April 19 to April 20, 2024. This camp served as an important preparation stage for athletes aiming for international success, including the upcoming 2025 World Games in China and the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games 2024 in Thailand.
At the camp, Yasam trained under some of the world’s most respected kickboxing coaches, including Miodrag Jotic of Serbia and Italian trainers Manuel Nordio and Marco Ferrarese. Their expertise provided Yasam with advanced techniques and strategies, preparing him mentally and physically to compete against Asia’s finest athletes. The camp’s intensive sessions focused on skill enhancement, strength conditioning, and mental resilience, all of which contributed to Yasam’s standout performance in Cambodia.
Driven by a Vision to Elevate Indian Kickboxing
Yasam’s journey is fueled by a powerful vision: to bring global recognition to Indian kickboxing and inspire other young athletes. His commitment to the sport goes beyond personal achievement; he aspires to pave the way for future generations of Indian kickboxers and hopes to see India shine on international platforms.
“Every time I step into the ring, I carry India with me. I’m committed to making my country proud and showing the world what Indian athletes are capable of,” Yasam remarked. His journey exemplifies the power of hard work, dedication, and a relentless desire to elevate Indian kickboxing to the highest levels.
Consistent Success in National Competitions
In addition to his success abroad, Yasam has maintained a steady presence in national tournaments. In July 2024, he competed in the National Kickboxing Championship for Seniors and Masters in Goa, where he placed fifth in the Low Kick Ring (-81 kg) category. His consistent performances reflect his commitment to honing his skills and achieving excellence, regardless of the competition’s scale.
Yasam’s journey in competitive kickboxing began with local tournaments, but his talent and ambition quickly propelled him to the national and then international levels. His family, based in AdavulaDeevi village in Andhra Pradesh, has been a constant source of support and motivation, encouraging him to pursue his dreams and bring pride to his community.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for New Challenges
With his recent successes at the Asian Championship, Yasam is already gearing up for future competitions, including the 2025 World Games in China. His focus remains on continuous improvement, and he is dedicated to enhancing his skills through disciplined training and expert guidance. Supported by his sponsors, mentors, and community, Yasam’s sights are set firmly on more challenging tournaments, where he aims to elevate his performance and continue representing India with pride.
Yasam Koti Naga Babu’s journey from a small village in Andhra Pradesh to the international kickboxing arena is an inspiring story of perseverance, vision, and ambition. His accomplishments at the Asian Championship are not just personal victories but serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across India. As Yasam continues to break new ground and set higher standards, he is undoubtedly leaving an indelible mark on Indian kickboxing.
