Indian boxers Sumit Kundu and Neeraj Phogat delivered standout performances at the World Boxing Championships in Liverpool, England, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals with contrasting victories. Sumit Kundu, competing in the men’s 75kg middleweight category, showcased his dominance with a unanimous 5-0 decision over Jordan’s Mohammad Al Hussein.

The Army boxer controlled the bout from the opening bell, claiming the center of the ring and landing precise, powerful punches that overwhelmed his opponent. Despite easing off in the final round, Kundu’s lead was unassailable, securing his place in the round of 16, where he will face a formidable challenge against reigning European champion and Paris Olympian Rami Kiwan of Bulgaria.

In the women’s 65kg category, Neeraj Phogat fought a tense battle against Finland’s Krista Kovalainen, clinching a narrow 3-2 split decision. After a challenging second round, Phogat rallied in the final round, leveraging her range and resilience to sway four of the five judges in her favor, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals.

Sanamacha Chanu also progressed, powering into the women’s 70kg pre-quarterfinals with a 4-1 victory over Denmark’s Ditte Frostholm on September 4. Utilizing her height advantage, the Manipuri boxer delivered heavy blows to unsettle her opponent, setting up a clash with World Boxing Cup gold medallist Natalya Bogdanova of Kazakhstan. However, heavyweight Harsh Choudhary faced an early exit in the men’s 90kg category, suffering a referee-stopped contest defeat to Poland’s Tutak Adams.

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India’s campaign continues with Asian Games medallist Narender Berwal (90+kg) and Commonwealth Games medallist Jaismine Lamboria (57kg) set to compete later on September 5, as the 20-member Indian contingent aims to build on its strong start in this inaugural World Boxing Championships.

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