Indian Boxers Shine at Boxing World Cup in China

On the first day of the Boxing World Cup in China, Indian boxers Deepak and Poonam emerged victorious, advancing to the next rounds in their categories. Poonam won decisively against Uzbekistan's Aziza Yokubova, while Deepak triumphed over Turkmenistan's Bayramdurdy Nurmuhammedov. However, the day was disappointing for the other Indian competitors, with several facing defeats in their matches. As the tournament continues, all eyes will be on Deepak and Poonam to see if they can maintain their winning streak.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 22:14 IST

Successful Start for Deepak and Poonam

On the inaugural day of the Boxing World Cup (Stage 2) held in China, Deepak and Poonam stood out as the only Indian victors, successfully advancing in their respective weight categories. Poonam, competing in the women's 54kg division, achieved a remarkable 5-0 win against Uzbekistan's Aziza Yokubova in the preliminary round of 32. Similarly, Deepak showcased his prowess in the men's 70kg category, securing a unanimous 5-0 victory over Turkmenistan's Bayramdurdy Nurmuhammedov.

Challenges for Other Indian Boxers

Unfortunately, the remaining Indian boxers faced setbacks. In the preliminary round of 16, Rishi Singh (50kg) was defeated by Azerbaijan's Subhan Mamedov, while Sanamacha Chanu Thokchom (75kg) lost to Canada's Tammara Thibeault. Sawan Gill also exited the competition after a loss to Norway's Omar Shiha in the men's 90kg category. Anmol (60kg) narrowly lost 2-3 to Salim Ellis Bey from the USA. Additionally, Harsh Choudhary (90kg) had his match halted due to injury, resulting in a loss to Sweden's Elwin Belezika via Referee Stops Contest in the third round. In the quarterfinals, Naina was defeated by China's Xiaomeng Wang in the women's 80kg category, and Alfiya Tarannum Akram Khan Pathan lost to Poland's Elzbieta Wojcik in the women's 90+kg division.

Looking Ahead

With their victories, Deepak and Poonam are set to continue representing India as the tournament progresses.

Match Results for Indian Boxers

Wins:
Poonam (54kg-W) defeated Aziza Yokubova (Uzbekistan-W) 5-0
Deepak (70kg) defeated Bayramdurdy Nurmuhammedov (Turkmenistan) 5-0
Losses:
Anmol (60kg) lost to Salim Ellis Bey (USA) 2-3
Harsh Choudhary (90kg) lost to Elwin Belezika (Sweden) via RSC (I) Round 3
Naina (80kg-W) lost to Xiaomeng Wang (China-W) 0-5
Sanamacha Chanu Thokchom (75kg-W) lost to Tammara Thibeault (Canada-W) 0-5
Rishi Singh (50kg) lost to Subhan Mamedov (Azerbaijan) 0-5
Alfiya Tarannum Akram Khan Pathan (90+kg-W) lost to Elzbieta Wojcik (Poland-W) 0-5
Sawan Gill (90kg) lost to Omar Shiha (Norway) 0-5.