Can Meenakshi, Sakshi, Pooja Rani, Hitesh, and Jugnoo Claim Gold at the World Boxing Cup?
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Synopsis
India's boxing team has made a striking impact at the World Boxing Cup 2025, with five boxers reaching the finals. Aiming for six gold medals, the Indian contingent is set to make history in Astana. With impressive performances from Meenakshi, Sakshi, and Pooja Rani, the anticipation for the final day is at an all-time high.
Key Takeaways
- Meenakshi defied expectations with a strong 5:0 victory.
- Sakshi showcased exceptional skill, winning by a similar margin.
- Pooja Rani secured her final spot despite a late challenge.
- Hitesh Gulia demonstrated resilience in his semifinal.
- Jugnoo delivered a dominating performance, enhancing team spirit.
Astana (Kazakhstan), July 5 (NationPress) Meenakshi (women’s 48kg), Sakshi (women’s 54kg), Pooja Rani (women’s 80kg), Hitesh Gulia (men’s 70kg), and Jugnoo (men’s 85kg) achieved remarkable victories to secure their spots in the finals of their respective weight divisions at the World Boxing Cup 2025 here on Saturday. This sets the stage for India’s boxing team to contend for six gold medals on the final day, Sunday.
India has already secured 11 medals from Astana, with Abhinash Jamwal (men’s 65kg) still vying for a final berth later in the day.
Meenakshi kicked off India’s campaign on Saturday with a dominant performance, defeating Nurselen Yalgettekin from Turkey 5:0 in the 48kg semifinal. Sakshi followed suit, showcasing her skills by consistently landing punches against Feruza Kazakova from Uzbekistan, also winning by an identical margin in the 54kg category.
Olympic athlete Pooja Rani encountered a late challenge from Elif Guneri of Turkey in the 80kg category but clinched a spot in the final with a close 3:2 victory. Nupur had previously secured her place in the finals for the 80+ category on Friday, leading to four Indian women boxers competing for medals.
Sanju (60kg) was another Indian semifinalist in action on Saturday. Although she put forth a strong effort against Viktoriya Grafeyeva from Kazakhstan, she ultimately lost 0:5, earning a bronze medal instead.
Earlier this year, India secured a total of six medals in the first leg of the World Boxing Cup in Brazil, which only featured male boxers.
This is a historic moment as it marks the first opportunity for women pugilists to display their talents on the World Boxing Cup platform, and they have seized the chance.
Hitesh Gulia, who was a gold medallist in Brazil, faced challenges after the first round against Makan Traore from France but bounced back with a series of effective punches in the second round, ultimately winning with a strong performance in the final round.
Jugnoo contributed to the jubilant atmosphere within the Indian team by decisively defeating Teagan Scott of England 5:0.
Point of View
I believe this remarkable achievement by our women pugilists at the World Boxing Cup is a testament to their hard work and resilience. This historic moment not only highlights the growing prominence of women's boxing in India but also signifies a bright future for the sport. We stand with our athletes as they chase glory on this prestigious platform.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Indian boxers reached the finals at the World Boxing Cup 2025?
Meenakshi, Sakshi, Pooja Rani, Hitesh Gulia, and Jugnoo reached the finals in their respective weight categories.
How many gold medals is India aiming for?
India is vying for six gold medals at the World Boxing Cup 2025.
What was the performance of Sanju in the 60kg category?
Sanju lost in the semifinals against Viktoriya Grafeyeva of Kazakhstan and secured a bronze medal.
How did Hitesh Gulia perform in his semifinal?
Hitesh Gulia overcame a tough first round against Makan Traore from France to win his semifinal convincingly.
What historical significance does this tournament hold for Indian women boxers?
This is the first time women pugilists from India have the opportunity to compete at the World Boxing Cup, showcasing their skills on an international stage.
