Punching Above Their Weight: India’s Quartet Storms Into Semis on Day 1 of World Boxing Cup Finals

India’s medal tally begins with a clean sweep in elite boxing showdown  
The opening day of the World Boxing Cup Finals 2025 saw India deliver a commanding performance at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida. In a tournament reserved for the world’s top eight boxers per category, the Indian contingent rose to the occasion with precision and grit.

Reigning world champion Minakshi Hooda (48kg) set the tone by outclassing Kazakhstan’s Bolat Akbota with a 5–0 verdict. Preeti Pawar (54kg) followed suit, overwhelming Uzbekistan’s Nigina Uktamova with sharp footwork and combinations. Ankush Phangal and Narender Berwal sealed the sweep, with Narender battling through a cut above his eye to clinch a 4–1 win.

Major takeaways  

• Minakshi Hooda, Preeti Pawar, Ankush Phangal, and Narender Berwal enter semi-finals  
• All four boxers guaranteed podium finishes on Day 1  
• Narender Berwal fought through injury to secure his win  
• Tournament features only top eight global contenders per weight class  
• India’s campaign begins with precision, composure, and medal assurance  

Sources: Khel Now, The Hans India, WION, Olympics.com, ANI