India’s top pugilists are gearing up for a strong finish to the year as the World Boxing Cup Finals (WBCF) 2025 begin at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Indoor Stadium on Sunday. The year-end event, though slightly weakened by a few last-minute withdrawals, remains a crucial opportunity for boxers to secure international ranking points ahead of a packed 2026 calendar featuring the Commonwealth and Asian Games.
The stakes are high — with 75 percent of points earned this year carrying over into 2026, performances at the Finals could significantly influence seedings in upcoming competitions. According to the event format, winners will earn 300 ranking points, runners-up 200, and bronze medalists 150. The tournament features over 120 athletes from 17 countries, including world champions Agata Kaczmarska (80kg) and Huang Hsiao Wen (54kg), Olympic medallist Wu Shih-yi, and World Boxing Cup titleholder Attrattivo Salvatore.
India has fielded a formidable contingent, especially in the women’s division. Leading the lineup are reigning world champion Minakshi Hooda (48kg), Jaismine Lamboria (57kg), former champions Nikhat Zareen (51kg) and Saweety Boora (75kg), silver medallist Nupur Sheoran (80+kg), and bronze medallist Pooja Rani (80kg). Eight Indian women, including Pooja — who advanced to the final via a bye — and Parveen Hooda, returning after a suspension, will start directly from medal rounds. Rising talents Minakshi and Preeti Pawar (54kg) will feature in their opening quarterfinal bouts on Sunday.
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“This is my first major international competition at home since the World Championships, and I want to make it memorable,” said Nikhat Zareen, reflecting the optimism within the Indian camp. Meanwhile, Olympic bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain has opted out of the tournament to rest following nasal treatment. Despite her absence, confidence remains high, with the women’s team set to chase multiple podium finishes.
In the men’s section, India is already assured of three medals as Sachin Siwach (60kg), Abinash Jamwal (65kg), and Jugnoo (85kg) advance directly to the semifinals. Heavyweight Narender Berwal (90+kg), an Asian Games medallist, will use the event to test his technical refinements ahead of a demanding new season. With a blend of established stars and emerging contenders, India’s campaign at the World Boxing Cup Finals aims to end the year on a high — both in medals and momentum.
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