From the Dhaba to the Ring: A Kickboxer’s Journey
Tracking Indian Youth Workers: Mohammad Uvais Khan
The Tracking Indian Youth Workers Media Fellowship brings you the first in a series of stories that capture the lives of young workers across India.
Our first profile features Mohammad Uvais Khan, a 20 year old young man from Sabzipur, Moradabad. Uvais dreams of becoming a UFC/MMA kickboxer one day. Uvais moved away from home to follow his passion, balancing work and training. He now works at a dhaba in Aligarh, dedicating every spare moment towards training for his goal. His journey is one of quiet determination and an unshakable resolve.
In respect of his wishes, his face is not shown in the accompanying image, but his story is shared as he told it:
“I cannot return home without achieving success. It’s do or die for me. I want to return to my mother and family with pride. Despite criticism from relatives, neighbors, and others, the crowds I’ve performed for have always appreciated me.”
Read his full story below.
Question: Tell me about yourself?
Answer: My name is Mohammad Uvais Khan. I am from Sabzipur, Moradabad. Since childhood, I have been passionate about karate and boxing. I come from a family of eight—my parents, four brothers, a sister, and me. My father is a farmer, and my mother is a homemaker.
I have participated in multiple regional strength competitions. The DSP awarded me a medal for my fierce display of strength, where I smashed multiple coconuts with my head and bare hands.
Question: Do you attend college?
Answer: I completed my senior secondary education and am currently enrolled in a graduation program in pharmacy at Shri Venkateshwara University, Gajraula. My father paid for my education and my siblings'education by selling some of our farming land and cattle.
Question: What did you want to become growing up?
Answer: I always wanted to be a UFC/MMA kickboxer while supporting my family, or at least covering my own expenses. However, due to my passion, my family withdrew their financial support. I left home to follow my passion and prove myself, even sleeping hungry for a few days. I tried to find part-time jobs but couldn’t find any that allowed me to earn while practicing kickboxing.
Eventually, I started working at a dhaba in Aligarh, far from my hometown, to avoid judgment. I try to attend college for a few days each month.
Question: How did you get your job at the dhaba?
Answer: By chance, I met the owner of the dhaba in Aligarh, connected with him, and eventually got the job. I earn ₹ 300 per day, with accommodation provided. My salary goes into covering my personal expenses and my training.
I wake up early in the morning for warm-up sessions. At 10 a.m., I go to the dhaba and work until 3 p.m. From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., I train for kickboxing. After training, I return to the dhaba and work until midnight.
Mohammad Uvais Khan (face concealed upon request).
Question: What do you like the most about working at the dhaba?
Answer: I enjoy the liberty to train for my passion. The downside is the fear of judgment and recognition. However, my boss is very supportive. He allows me time to train and helps me in many other ways.
My short-term goal is to prepare myself for upcoming opportunities in kickboxing and martial arts, such as regional competitions. My long-term goal is to establish myself in kickboxing and become a UFC/MMA fighter. I don’t expect much from my current job, but I believe in myself.
Question: What motivates you to keep going, even when times are tough?
Answer: Self-belief. I cannot return home without achieving success. It’s do or die for me. I want to return to my mother and family with pride. Despite criticism from relatives, neighbors, and others, the crowds I’ve performed for have always appreciated me.
I also have a YouTube channel where I showcase my strength, performing feats like pulling buses, cars, and even a bulldozer. With around over a thousand subscribers, the support I receive from them keeps me motivated. My friends and boss also encourage me to keep going.
Question: What are your thoughts on the opportunities and challenges facing young workers in India?
Answer: If I were to advise my younger brother, I would tell him to put in all his effort. With dedication and God’s help, anything is possible. Follow your passion and do your best, and you will achieve what you desire. While it’s difficult to get what you want at this age, it’s not impossible. Life is difficult, but if a person is dedicated, they can achieve anything.
Question: What do you think you will be doing in 5 years?
Answer: Following my passion.
Profile by Mohammad Kaif Zaidi.
This is the first in a series of profiles documenting the experiences of young people across India. Stay tuned for more stories from young workers across India. Follow us on social media for more updates.