The journey to excellence often meanders unpredictably, taking athletes to unforeseen destinations.
Eldor Akmurzayev’s story is no exception.
Beginning his athletic career in karate, the Kazakhstani Akmurzayev developed the mental resilience and discipline essential for martial arts success.
However, when life circumstances necessitated a change, Akmurzayev embraced the shift without hesitation.
Transitioning to powerlifting, where he quickly ascended through the ranks, he demonstrated that changing sports can serve not as a hindrance, but rather as the start of a more significant journey.
And his eyes are now set on the Olympics.
Karate Roots: Building Discipline and Focus
“I first started with the sport of Karate at the age of 10,” Akmurzayev reminisced. The athlete from Shymkent honed his skills, mastering karate’s intricate movements and techniques, which shaped his approach to every obstacle he encountered.
Through his extensive training and mental fortitude, he acquired multiple accolades in karate, including a prestigious three-time national championship title.
Nevertheless, as he matured, his prospects for international success in karate faded. Akmurzayev felt it was time to seek greater achievements in a different arena.
Transitioning to Powerlifting: Facing New Challenges and Excelling on the World Stage
When one opportunity closes, another opens. For Akmurzayev, that new opportunity was found in powerlifting.
“In 2018, my brother introduced me to the sport of powerlifting,” he shared. His brother connected him with coach Sadykov Kakhroman, paving the way for a fresh beginning in athletics.
As expected, powerlifting presented him with another chance to excel.
“With each passing day, my interest and strength in this sport grew. Watching my older brothers motivated me even more,” he remarked.
Utilizing the discipline and strength acquired from karate, Akmurzayev diligently trained, constantly refining his skills and techniques in powerlifting.
His efforts paid off handsomely.
Since making his competition debut in 2019, Akmurzayev has amassed numerous medals in various national and international powerlifting events:
- 3rd Place at the 2019 Kazakhstan Championships
- 1st Place at the 2021 World Bench Press Championships in the Junior Division
- 1st Place at the 2021 Asian Classic and Equipped Bench Press and Powerlifting Championships, Men’s Classic 183 Sub-Juniors
- 1st Place at the 2022 World Bench Press Championships in the Junior Division
Additionally, Akmurzayev set two national powerlifting records and earned the title of six-time champion in Kazakhstan.
In 2021, he achieved the status of Master of Sports in Bench Press in Kazakhstan, and was nominated for the title of “Best Athlete of the Year” by the mayor of Shymkent.
With an eye toward the future, Akmurzayev aims for the Olympic podium. “I’m proud to represent [the] Kazakhstan team,” he asserted.
He remains relentless, applying the lessons learned from both karate and powerlifting as he progresses on the international stage.
Akmurzayev’s powerlifting journey would not have flourished without the discipline instilled in him from karate. Although his sporting focus has shifted, his aspiration remains unchanged—standing on the podium at the most prestigious sporting event in the world.
About the Author
Raven Henson is a sports journalist based in Dallas, focusing on athlete narratives and competitive culture. With five years of experience covering both local and international events, she brings a unique perspective to sports journalism. Outside of writing, Raven enjoys baking and training for marathons.
