“I’ve always believed that in the ring, a never-give-up mindset is the only thing that truly separates a fighter from the crowd. Growing up in Hyderabad, I was just a regular kid who loved sports—cricket, football, volleyball—anything that kept me moving. My foundation into martial arts started with Karate and Kung Fu for fitness, but after schooling, I found my true passion in kickboxing. Just three months into training, I won Silver at the State Championship, and it was clear: this wasn’t just a sport; it was my calling.
The true test of a fighter isn’t the medal; it’s the struggle you endure to get there. At my first National Championship, I came face-to-face with a two-time champion. I was inexperienced and took a heavy beating. Ten times, my mind screamed to give up. But I stayed for 12 agonizing minutes. I stayed to face my fear. I left with injuries but a soul of iron. I haven’t lost a single fight since that day.
I played several more tournaments, gaining the veteran experience I once lacked. In February 2020, I represented India at the WAKO India Open International Championship where I secured my first International Gold medal in the final which proved that hard work eventually conquers everything.
The reality of the sport is that each international tournament costs nearly ₹2 Lakh, and finding sponsors back then was incredibly difficult. I eventually transitioned into coaching, with the dream of seeing my students take my vision forward to even greater heights. On March 22, 2020, I launched Shadow Kickboxing and Fitness Studio. Our momentum was immediately impacted by the lockdown, but with my parents’ backing and the constant support of my wife, we didn’t just survive; we moved to a bigger, better place.
Today, my students represent India in National, Asia, and Khelo India championships.
After 10 years in this field, I’ve realized my destiny was perhaps even greater than being a fighter; it was being a coach. My aim isn’t just to teach people how to kick; it’s to build a ‘lifestyle mindset’. Kickboxing in Telangana is definitely growing, but it still has a long way to go.
I’m thankful for my family, my colleagues, and I hope to see more support for the many fighters in Telangana who are putting in the work every day.
To the fighters and the non-fighters out there: Pursue yourself 100%. Don’t give up when life starts landing hits. Sometimes, progress is just about staying consistent, staying in the fight, and learning exactly how it feels to never lose again.”
— Akshay Kumar Joshi, International Kickboxing Champion & Coach