Ashraf Tai, the martial arts pioneer of Pakistan, suffered a heart attack on January 19 this year, after which his condition was reported to be critical.
He was admitted to the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), where he was placed in the intensive care unit. Doctors have now stated that his condition is out of danger.
Tai is regarded as the martial arts pioneer in Pakistan. Born in Burma (now Myanmar), he introduced karate and kickboxing in the country during the 1970s. He established the first martial arts academy in Karachi and played a significant role in promoting the sport nationwide. He gained international recognition in 1978 when he defeated Stanley Michael, a well-known fighter from the United States, in a full-contact karate match.
Earlier, in 2013, Ashraf Tai Martial Arts Pioneer faced severe health complications and was in a life-threatening condition. However, he later recovered.
His contributions to martial arts have earned him several accolades, including national awards, and he remains an iconic figure in Pakistan’s sports history.