ÎPTİSAM AXFÎR

Benghazi – During Muammar Gaddafi's reign, boxing was banned for more than thirty years in Libya. After the fall of the old regime, the ban on boxing was lifted. In 2011, boxing courses were reopened in the country. Libyan first female boxer 21-year-old Malak Al-Mazoughi began to learn boxing in Benghazi in 2019. She was first trained by Suleiman Elshwihdi and then by Ahmed Zidan. She is trained by Ahmed Zidan.

She has a gold medal

Stating that she has been interested in all sports branches, particularly boxing, since her childhood, Malak Al-Mazoughi told us that her father encouraged her to learn boxing. She participated in a boxing championship that took place in Libya in 2021 and won a gold medal. “I want to represent my country by attending international boxing championships,” she said.

Women should learn boxing to protect themselves

Speaking about criticisms claiming that “boxing is not suited for women”, Malak Al-Mazoughi said, “Women should learn this sport to defend and protect themselves. I learned boxing to protect myself against possible sexual harassment. I will always do this sport.”

“I'm proud of my daughters”

Malak Al-Mazoughi’s mother Hanan Awad Hamy told us that she is happy that her daughter is learning boxing. Stating that her daughters are actually interested in sports since their childhood, Hanan Awad Hamy said, “I want my daughters to have strong personalities. That’s why I’m proud of my daughters. I hope they will be role models for all Libyan women.”