Chennai
India’s star boxer Nikhat Zareen enters the Asian Boxing Championships as the top seed in her category but could face a stern test against Olympic champion Wu Yu in the semifinals, following the official draw released ahead of the tournament in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
The continental event, marks the first major competition of the season and carries significant weight, with finalists likely to secure spots for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games as per selection policy.
Nikhat, a two-time world champion competing in the 51kg division, will be aiming to maintain her dominance. However, her path is far from easy, with Wu Yu — who defeated her convincingly during the 2024 Summer Olympics — potentially awaiting in the last-four stage if both progress.
India’s coaching staff, led by head coach Santiago Nieva, has been closely analysing opponents following the draw, underlining the importance of preparation at this level. The team comprises a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, all eager to make an impact.
Among the seasoned names, Lovlina Borgohain, who begins directly from the semifinals in the 75kg category, will look to regain top form after a quiet 2025 season. She could face Uzbekistan’s rising boxer Aziza Zokirova, a silver medallist from the previous edition.
Reigning world champions Minakshi Hooda (48kg) and Jaismine Lamboria (57kg) also carry top seeding, boosting India’s medal prospects. Other contenders, including Preeti, Priya, Ankushita, and veteran Pooja Rani, are set to face early challenges against strong Kazakhstan opponents.
In the men’s section, the competition appears even tougher due to greater depth. Promising talent Jadumani Singh Mandengbam faces a challenging opening bout against Japan’s Rui Yamaguchi, while experienced boxer Sachin (60kg) enters as the No. 2 seed.
With strong contingents from boxing powerhouses like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, Indian boxers will need to be at their very best to secure podium finishes and cement their place in upcoming global events.
