For Aiman Abu Bakar, the dream is still worth the fight

KUALA LUMPUR: Aiman Abu Bakar, 34, has pursued a career in professional boxing for over a decade after abandoning football in 2014 and moving to the Philippines. His childhood dream to box professionally led him to immerse himself in a boxing culture far from his home in Malaysia. Aiman's dedication to the sport is evident in his rigorous training regimen, which includes 12-week camps, six days a week of training, and two sessions per day, even when his motivation wanes.

Despite financial struggles, limited support, and periods of loneliness, Aiman remains steadfast in his pursuit of a career in boxing. He currently competes in the super featherweight division and has achieved notable milestones, including winning the WBC Asia Silver Super Featherweight title in August 2024 and the WBC Asia Super Featherweight title in April 2025.

Ranked 36th in the world, Aiman still aspires to achieve his childhood dream of fighting for a world title, but acknowledges the additional challenges that must be overcome, such as securing a strong support team and improved sponsorship opportunities. Even after a decade away from football, Aiman remains committed to his goal, drawing inspiration from legendary boxers like Manny Pacquiao, Roberto Durán, Julio César Chávez, and Terence Crawford, and carrying the Malaysian flag with pride in every ring he enters.