India’s Jadumani Singh Mandengbam made a winning start to his Commonwealth Games 2026 campaign by defeating Scotland’s Aaron Cullen 5-0 via unanimous decision in the men’s 55kg boxing Round of 32 in Glasgow.
The 23-year-old Manipuri boxer, who recently moved up from the 50kg to the 55kg weight category, produced a composed and aggressive performance against the home favourite. Despite making his Commonwealth Games debut in a higher weight class, Jadumani dominated the opening round with his speed, footwork and sharp left-hand combinations, earning the judges’ confidence early in the contest.
Cullen fought back strongly in the second round, controlling the centre of the ring and landing several clean punches. However, Jadumani’s movement, quick counters and consistent scoring helped him edge the round on all five judges’ scorecards. With a comfortable lead, the Indian boxer managed the final round smartly, avoiding unnecessary risks and sealing an impressive unanimous victory.
The result marks a significant milestone for Jadumani, whose decision to move up by five kilograms after a successful 2025 season has already paid dividends. The lack of seeding at the Commonwealth Games meant he faced a difficult opening draw, but he handled the challenge with maturity and confidence.
Jadumani’s victory sends him into the Round of 16, boosting India’s boxing campaign in Glasgow. His performance has also underlined his potential to challenge for a medal as the competition progresses, giving Indian boxing another reason for optimism at the Commonwealth Games.
