ISLAMABAD: Pakistani martial artist and reigning world champion Shahzaib Rind has publicly criticised the federal government and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for failing to honor financial commitments made to him, despite his continued success on the global stage.
In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Shahzaib voiced his frustration after recently clinching the Karate Combat Lightweight World Championship at KC 56, where he delivered a dominant performance against Brazil’s Luis Rocha. The victory marks a significant milestone not only in Shahzaib’s career but also for Pakistan’s rapidly growing mixed martial arts (MMA) scene.
“Our politicians are corrupt last time i won prime Minister @CMShehbaz Announced me 5 Million cash and 80million to support my training Camp and upcoming fights it was all lie i never got penny from them. they just take pictures fake promosises and forget shame.”
The Prime Minister had announced financial and prize money for him on his previous performance. “I don’t know why i haven’t got what i promised almost 1.5 years ago. I tried to contact PM team, i haven’t got any response from them,” he said in another tweet.
I dont know why i havent got what i promised almost 1.5 years ago i tried to contact Pm team i haven’t got any response from them.
In other hand @PakSarfrazbugti and @AAliZardari @DHAQta_Official always been part of my journey and supporting me— Shahzaib “KING” Rind (@RindhShahzaib) July 23, 2025
Shahzaib, in a latest tweet, criticised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for celebrating Bangladesh’s win against Pakistan in the T20 series, saying the PM is more interested in Bangladesh than in celebrating Shahzaib Rind bringing home a World Title for Pakistan.
Sad to see that in Pakistan, it’s always just about cricket. There are other sports too. Our PM seems more interested in Bangladesh than celebrating Shahzaib Rind bringing home a World Title for Pakistan. Respect your champions. 🇵🇰🥇 #SupportAllSports#Raisevoiceforshahzaib… pic.twitter.com/6MtqMPtUhu
— Shahzaib “KING” Rind (@RindhShahzaib) July 24, 2025
’Shahzaib, earlier this month, brought the world champion title to home by defeating Brazilian fighter Luis Rocha with a dominant performance at KC 56.
The government had previously pledged Rs5 million in prize money and Rs80 million in training support following Shahzaib’s earlier victories. However, Shahzaib maintains that no part of the commitment materialized.
Sports fans and MMA followers have rallied behind the young fighter, hailing him as a symbol of Pakistan’s sporting resilience. Many have called on the government to immediately address the issue, fulfill its promises, and ensure future athletes do not face similar setbacks.
With his latest world title win, Shahzaib Rind has further solidified his status as one of Pakistan’s most successful martial artists, but his powerful message now places a spotlight on the urgent need for accountability and real investment in national talent.
