Is boxing jaiz in Islam (intention is one self defence)

  In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.  

Answer

Islam encourages one to keep in good physical shape, however taking up boxing or any other physical activities will only be permissible when there is no harm to one self and others. 

Abu Huraira (radi allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet (sallal lahu alayhi wa sallam) said, “If somebody fights (or beats somebody) then he should avoid the face.” (Bukhari, 3.734)

In boxing the main aim is to harm the opponent by landing blows to the upper body with the main concentration on the head and face. It is clear from the above that the face should be avoided, therefore in boxing if one is training he may use a punch bag or semi contact and in a self defence situation if at all possible the face should be avoided.

 
Only Allah knows best.

Sayeedur Rahman

Darul Ifta, Birmingham