25-year-old kickboxer Phur Deeki Sherpa has claimed her second National Pro League title, cementing her status as one of the country’s top professional fighters. The young athlete from the remote village of Yuksom in West Sikkim emerged victorious in a thrilling final bout held in Pune, defeating her opponent with a combination of precise technique, unmatched stamina, and fierce determination.
This latest win adds to Sherpa’s growing list of accolades and marks a significant milestone in her professional journey. Known for her discipline and humility, Sherpa’s rise to the top has been anything but easy—her story is one of perseverance, talent, and an unyielding will to overcome obstacles.
A Star Rises from the Eastern Himalayas
Phur Deeki Sherpa began her kickboxing career at the age of 15, training under limited resources in her hometown before earning a spot at a reputed martial arts training center in Gangtok. Her raw potential was evident from the beginning, and under the guidance of seasoned coaches, she quickly rose through state-level competitions.
Her first major breakthrough came when she won her debut national title in 2022. Since then, Sherpa has competed in numerous national and international tournaments, steadily climbing the rankings and earning respect for her fierce fighting style and calm demeanor both inside and outside the ring.
“Winning the second Pro League title feels like a dream. It’s proof that hard work and belief can overcome any challenge,” Sherpa said after her win, draped in the Sikkimese flag. “This victory is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who believed in me—from my coaches to my family to the people of Sikkim.”
The Road to Victory
The 2025 National Pro Kickboxing League saw some of India’s best fighters compete across weight categories and disciplines. Sherpa competed in the women’s 54kg category, a highly competitive division that required a mix of speed, strategy, and power.
Her journey to the finals was anything but smooth. After a narrow semi-final victory over Maharashtra’s Priya Khandekar—where Sherpa had to rally from behind—she entered the final with renewed focus. Her opponent, Anjali Verma from Haryana, was known for her aggressive stance and quick footwork, but Sherpa managed to keep her at bay with calculated counters and superior endurance.
The final bout lasted three intense rounds. Sherpa dominated with her sharp kicks and defensive blocks, ultimately winning by unanimous decision from the judges.
Sikkim’s Pride and Role Model
Sherpa’s triumph has resonated across Sikkim and the wider Northeast, where martial arts are growing in popularity among the youth. Messages of congratulations poured in from sports bodies, public figures, and fans. The Sikkim Olympic Association and the Sikkim Kickboxing Association hailed her as a trailblazer for aspiring athletes, especially women.
“Phur Deeki has become a symbol of strength, not just in the ring but as a woman breaking barriers in a male-dominated sport,” said Tashi Gurung, president of the Sikkim Kickboxing Association. “Her journey reflects the spirit of Sikkim—resilient, bold, and full of promise.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
With her second national title in hand, Sherpa now has her eyes set on the international stage. She is currently training for the upcoming Asian Kickboxing Championships, where she hopes to represent India and bring home a medal.
Beyond competition, she is also passionate about mentoring young athletes in Sikkim. Sherpa frequently visits schools and community centers, encouraging students to pursue sports and maintain discipline in life. She hopes to set up a training academy in her village someday to nurture homegrown talent.
“I want the next generation to dream bigger than I did,” Sherpa said with a smile. “If I can do it, so can they.”
As Phur Deeki Sherpa continues to blaze her trail in the world of kickboxing, she stands as a shining example of what determination, talent, and support can achieve—even from the quiet corners of the Eastern Himalayas.