At just 18 years old, Rukhshona Uktamova has become one of Uzbekistan’s brightest rising stars – capturing gold and breaking a world record at the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Games in Para Powerlifting event.
Competing in the junior 67 kg class, she not only lifted an astonishing 120 kg, but lifted the spirits of her entire nation, proving that dreams built on courage and discipline can break every barrier.
Rukhshona’s story is one of perseverance woven with inspiration. She credits her coach, Oybek Inomjonov, as the person who first saw her potential.
“He invited me into the sport. He even visited our home and supported me from the very beginning. His belief in me changed everything,” she shared.
That belief would eventually lead her far beyond her hometown – to Egypt for her first international competition in 2022, and today, to global recognition in Dubai.
Powerlifting transformed Rukhshona’s life in ways she never imagined.
“A lot has changed. My outlook on life, my experiences, the friends I made, and the chance to travel abroad – it all happened because of powerlifting.”
Her college supported her wholeheartedly when she told them she was heading to Dubai, cheering her on as she prepared for one of the biggest competitions of her career.
The defining moment came when she stepped onto the platform in Dubai and lifted 120 kg, setting a new world record.
“It was unforgettable. We were very nervous – Olympics and Paralympics come with great responsibility. But despite the heat and pressure, I broke the record. It felt amazing,” she recalled.
Supported by her older brother, NPC Uzbekistan President Mukhtorkhon Tashkhodjaev, she pushed through every obstacle to deliver the performance of a lifetime.
When she was officially crowned champion, the emotions were overwhelming.
“It felt incredible. We were so happy—especially with the concerts and celebrations organized for us in Dubai.”
But beyond the medal, breaking the world record held a deeper meaning for Rukhshona.
“I felt like I had justified the trust of my friends, relatives, and teachers. Their support means everything to me.”
Rukhshona’s courage is rooted in resilience. She lost her leg as an infant.
“I was only 8 months old. I suffered a severe burn, and they had to amputate my leg,” she shared.
From that early tragedy grew a fighter—one who refuses to let any challenge define her limits.
Despite this monumental achievement, Rukhshona is already focused on the future.
Her dream is to compete in the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles—and win gold once again for Uzbekistan.
“Do I believe I can do it? Yes, absolutely. I work hard every day for this goal.”
With a world record, an international gold medal, and a nation standing proudly behind her, Rukhshona knows her journey has only just begun.
“After the Paralympics, breaking the world record, and returning home with the gold – my life feels completely new,” she said.
Rukhshona is more than a champion – she is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the soaring potential of young athletes with disabilities.
Three more superstars, Bahriddin Kholbutaev (up to 54kg), Elbek Farkhodov (Up to 80 kg) and Oyshajon Rajabboeva (Up to 86 kg) also set new world record in Rookie age category after they lifted 121kg, 170kg and 65kg respectively.
Her story reminds us that greatness is not defined by what we have lost, but by what we choose to rise above.
