BIO
KHALID TWAITI
DOB: 11/17/1995
Birthplace: Brooklyn, NY
Residence: Brooklyn, NY
Nationality: American
Weight Class: Bantamweight
Boxing Stance: Orthodox
Khalid Twaiti, an American professional boxer of Yemeni descent, was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, His faith, Islam is his foundation. An amateur boxing champion (ranked number two in the US) turned professional in 2017, Khalid aims to become an undisputed world champion! Khalid’s motto is “It’s bigger than me… I do it for those who can’t!” This helps keep him grounded and inspired everyday to fulfill his purpose.
KHALID TWAITI
Q & A
What do you want your fans and followers to know about you?
I’m a Muslim who fights for a larger purpose. I fight for those who have no opportunity, and those who feel like the world forgot about them.
Tell us something that most people don't know about you?
I’m a college graduate. I have a bachelor’s in management.
What inspires you?
I’m driven by those who struggle day in and day out to help support themselves and their families… like the people of Yemen who are going through a humanitarian crisis, the people of Palestine who are oppressed and the list goes on.
What do you do in your free-time?
In my free time I like to spend time with my family and loved ones.
You're a rising star on social media....How did you get into that?!
I’ve always stayed true to myself and I feel like everyone is a star if you’re completely yourself. That’s what makes you unique.
What's next for Sheikh Khalid?
I look to fight on the biggest stages in the world to showcase my skills and talent working my way up the ranks to conquer a world title.
What advice do you have for young athletes?
My advice is to get to know yourself through what you do. Competition builds character when things aren’t going your way they will shape you to be greater if you allow it too. Believe in yourself and don’t let anyone’s lack of belief in themselves allow you to feel like you can’t accomplish your goals and dreams.
Who do you most admire?
I admire Muhammad Ali. In a time where most people didn’t speak up he was courageous enough to do it with the platform he gained through boxing. It was bigger then boxing for him.
Who are your role models?
Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)
Favorite Musical Artist/Band?
Jay-Z and 50 Cent
Favorite Movie or TV Show?
None, but I watch boxing.
Favorite Celebrity/Personality Whom You've Met?
Prince Naseem was someone I’ve always looked up to. To meet him in person was like catching up with a family member.
Top Celebrity/Personality You'd Like to Meet?
Mike Tyson is an icon. I’d love to someday have a talk with him on his podcast. He is very intelligent and always has a lot of wisdom to share.
Favorite Place on Earth You've Visited?
Dubai. It felt like home. Being from NYC, I’m used to city living. Dubai is a beautiful city.
Place you Want to Visit Someday?
Yemen my home country and Mecca to complete umrah and hajj, one of the 5 pillars of Islam.
What's a typical day look like in the life of Sheikh Khalid?
Training at the boxing gym, spending time with family and loved ones, studying things I’m passionate about like boxing, Real estate, the stock market, crypto…
Favorite Number? Color?
Favorite number is 5 for the 5 pillars of Islam. Favorite color is gold. I got my nickname Pure Gold in 2013 when I won the Golden Gloves. After winning the first night of the tournament the Daily News Paper wrote an article about my fight and the headline was “Brooklyn’s Twaiti is Pure Gold.”
What's Your Pet Peeve?
Someone tapping me.
First Thing You Think About That Makes You Smile?
Being able to help others brings my heart joy.
If you weren't boxing, what would you be doing now?
God knows. I’ve never seen myself not boxing.
Words of wisdom
Put God first in everything. Learn yourself and be the captain of your ship. It’ll help you get to know others better as well. Give as much as you can, to give is to receive. What you put out is what you get back. Be grateful all the time!
