Boxing Glory Begins
Liverpool
India’s boxing campaign at the World Boxing Championships 2025 began with encouraging news as ten Indian boxers, including stars Lovlina Borgohain and Pooja Rani, received first-round byes. The tournament, being held in Liverpool, features over 544 boxers from 68 nations across 20 weight categories, making it the first edition to host men’s and women’s events together.
Medal hopes Hitesh Gulia (men’s 70kg), Abhinash Jamwal (men’s 65kg), and Lovlina (women’s 70kg) were among those spared tricky openers. Former world champion Nikhat Zareen, however, faces Jennifer Lozana of the USA in her opening bout. Despite not competing internationally this year, both Nikhat and Lovlina showed strong form in domestic events and trials.
The 20-member Indian squad enters the tournament on the back of solid performances at the World Boxing Cups in Brazil and Kazakhstan, where they won 17 medals, including four gold. The current draw also positions Hitesh and Abhinash favorably, keeping them away from Brazilian challengers Kainan Oliveira and Yuri Falcao until later rounds.
Among others, Sakshi (women’s 54kg) will open against Ukraine’s Viktoriia Shkeul, while Jaismine Lamboria (57kg) will face Daria-Olha Hutarina of Ukraine. A win there could set up a rematch with Brazil’s Jucielen Cerqueira Romeu, whom Jaismine defeated in Astana.
On opening day, four Indians will step into the ring: Pawan Bartwal (men’s 55kg) against Brazil’s Michael Douglas Trindade, Sakshi, Sanamacha Chanu (women’s 70kg), and Harsh Choudhary (men’s 90kg). With experienced names and fresh talent, India will be aiming to build momentum and push for podium finishes in multiple categories.
