India's Boxers Dominate World Boxing Cup, Eyeing Gold Rush
Image Source: Internet
India's boxers continued their impressive run at the ongoing World Boxing Cup, claiming six semi-final victories on the penultimate day of competition. The host nation's dominance sets the stage for a potential gold rush, with eight women and seven men poised to secure either gold or silver medals. In the women's division, two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen (51kg) and reigning 57kg world champion Jaismine Lamboriya advanced to the gold medal matches. Nikhat, who received a first-round bye, faced a scrappy bout against Uzbekistan's Ganieva Gulsevar. Despite struggling to land clean punches, Nikhat imposed herself on the ring, clinching and grappling to secure a 5-0 victory. Jadumani Singh Mandengbam, a 21-year-old from Manipur, stole the show with a unanimous decision against Izaz Omer in the 50kg semi-final. The young boxer's showmanship and ring generalship left his opponent bewildered, as he effortlessly dodged Omer's wild swings and landed precise combinations. Other Indian winners included Sachin Siwach (60kg), Hitesh Gulia (70kg), Pawan Bartwal (55kg), and Jaismine Lamboriya (57kg) in the women's division. While India's losses came through Neeraj Phogat, Jugnoo Ahlawat, and Sumit, each secured a bronze medal after bowing out in the semi-finals. Nikhat, who last won an international medal 21 months ago, expressed her happiness at finally opening her medal account. She attributed her success to her experience competing in front of a home crowd, which reminded her of her world championship win in 2023. Jadumani, on the other hand, credited his power and ring generalship for his convincing victory. The Indian boxers' performance has put them in a strong position to end their international season with a gold or silver medal. With the World Boxing Cup set to conclude soon, India's boxers are eyeing a triumphant finish.
