New Delhi, January 6: World Championship bronze medallist Pooja Rani and India international Jadumani Singh notched comfortable wins, while Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain and former Commonwealth Games champion Amit Panghal were pushed to the limit before progressing at the Elite Men and Women National Boxing Championships being held at Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida.
In a historic first, the men’s and women’s national championships are being conducted simultaneously at the same venue, featuring over 600 boxers from across the country. The event includes 10 weight categories each in both divisions, making it one of the biggest national-level boxing competitions in India.
Competing in the 75–80kg category, Haryana’s Pooja Rani displayed complete dominance as she defeated Anju of Chandigarh with a clean 5–0 verdict, underlining her superior technique and ring control. In another one-sided contest, Jadumani Singh (50–55kg) overpowered R. Parthiban of Tamil Nadu, forcing the referee to stop the contest in the second round due to Jadumani’s aggressive onslaught.
However, the day also produced closely fought bouts involving top stars. Former world champion Saweety challenged Assam’s Lovlina Borgohain in a tense encounter, but the Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist held her nerve to clinch a 3–2 split-decision victory.
In the men’s section, seasoned boxer Amit Panghal (50–55kg), representing SSCB, faced stiff resistance from Priyanshu of Haryana. Panghal eventually advanced after another narrow 3–2 split decision, reflecting the high level of competition on display at the championships.
With several marquee names in action and emerging talents making their presence felt, the tournament promises more thrilling contests in the coming rounds.
