Olympian Boxer Babar Ali Khan passes away

Olympian Boxer Babar Ali Khan passes away

 

Asher Butt

Pakistan’s sporting world mourns today (September 5, 2024) with the passing of Olympian boxer Babar Ali Khan, who succumbed to complications from kidney failure at Al-Shifa Hospital, Lahore. He was 62. Born on August 5, 1963, he had recently been admitted in critical condition and was living under financial strain while awaiting urgent assistance.

 

A legacy forged in the ring

Babar Ali Khan's name is etched in Pakistan’s boxing history. He represented the nation at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, competing in the men’s bantamweight division and progressing beyond the first round. Prior to that, he clinched a silver medal at the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi, showcasing his prowess at the continental level.

 His achievements didn’t end in the ring. After retiring from active competition, Babar dedicated himself to the sport as a coach, mentor, and ambassador, nurturing Pakistan’s next generation of boxers.

 

A tragic end amid unmet appeals

In his final days, Babar faced mounting health and financial challenges. His plight triggered urgent appeals from fellow Olympians, coaches, and sporting officials to the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister of Punjab, and the Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination — seeking both medical and financial assistance. Tragically, these pleas remained unheeded before his death.

“He was a legend who raised Pakistan’s flag high at every level,” read a joint statement issued by Pakistan’s boxing fraternity.

 

Farewell to a national hero

Babar’s funeral drew a heartfelt turnout of family, fellow athletes, and admirers. His last rites were performed in Ichhra, Lahore, followed by burial in his ancestral graveyard — a somber farewell to a man who inspired many.

 

A call for sports welfare reform

Babar’s untimely passing has reignited long-standing debates about the lack of structured support systems for retired athletes in Pakistan. His case echoes similar tragedies, such as the plight of Olympic hero Usman Ullah Khan—who died of cancer abroad, with delayed repatriation and scant official support.

While Pakistan has launched initiatives like the Sports Endowment Fund, aimed at helping athletes with education and medical aid, many still fall through the cracks.

Meanwhile, critiques of national sports bodies persist, with calls for reforms highlighting how these institutions often become “parking spaces” for retired members, rather than engines of athlete welfare.

 

Final Thoughts

Babar Ali Khan’s life was defined by resilience, excellence, and service. He wore Pakistan’s colors with honor—from the Olympic ring to the Asian Games podium—and continued to give back as a coach and mentor. His passing is a tremendous loss. More than ever, it's time for Pakistan to offer meaningful, lasting support to its heroes—before their final bell has rung.