The Arunachal Pradesh kickboxing team turned heads at the WAKO India Seniors & Masters National Kickboxing Championship 2025, held in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, from July 16 to 20, earning a haul of twelve medals. The team’s performance, which included three gold, three silver, and six bronze medals, marked a significant milestone for the state’s growing reputation in combat sports and underscored its athletes’ determination, skill, and preparation.
Among the gold medal winners were Rantu Sonowal, who dominated the 57kg K1 category, Bishal Mura, who clinched victory in the 54kg Low Kick event, and Licha Sep, who impressed in the 65kg Light Contact division. The silver medals were secured by Robin Deori (67kg K1), Jipe Lombi (54kg K1), and Bem Tada (86kg Full Contact), all of whom demonstrated consistency and grit against strong national contenders. The bronze medal lineup included Kabak Mallam in the 60kg Full Contact category, Khyoda Talik in 57kg Light Contact, Guchi Laila in 52kg Full Contact, Gokia Pake in 70kg K1, Pisa Ane in 65kg Full Contact, and again, Licha Sep, who earned a second medal in the Point Fight event — a testament to her versatility across styles.
The championship, organized under the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO) India, featured more than a thousand participants representing twenty-five states and institutions, providing a platform for martial artists across the country to showcase their prowess. Arunachal’s contingent emerged as one of the standout teams, earning praise not just for the medal tally but for the spirited performances that reflected their growing mastery in the sport.
Following the event, the Kickboxing Association of Arunachal extended heartfelt congratulations to all athletes, commending their effort and discipline. The association also acknowledged WAKO India President Santosh K. Agrawal for his continued encouragement and support, which has been instrumental in nurturing the sport’s grassroots presence and paving pathways for national exposure.
Officials and sports observers believe that the team’s success will serve as a powerful motivator for aspiring athletes across the state and may attract greater investment in training facilities, coaching programs, and athlete development schemes in the years ahead.
