Roman Reigns inspired his punches, Russell gave him a nickname: Meet Kapil Pokhariya

 Inspired by WWE star Roman Reigns and nicknamed ‘Khatima ka Russell’ for his big-hitting prowess, Indian Army havaldar Kapil Pokhariya took an unconventional route to boxing. Growing up in a small Uttarakhand village, he went from punching homemade bags filled with mountain soil to winning bronze in the men’s 90kg category at the 2026 Asian Games. Kapil reflects on his childhood, his father’s support, his Army journey and his dream of Olympic glory. Inspired by WWE star Roman Reigns and nicknamed ‘Khatima ka Russell’ for his big-hitting prowess, Indian Army havaldar Kapil Pokhariya took an unconventional route to boxing. Growing up in a small Uttarakhand village, he went from punching homemade bags filled with mountain soil to winning bronze in the men’s 90kg category at the 2026 Asian Games. Kapil reflects on his childhood, his father’s support, his Army journey and his dream of Olympic glory.