India’s women pugilists scripted history at the World Boxing Championships, with Jaismine Lamboria and debutant Minakshi Hooda clinching gold medals, as the country concluded its best-ever overseas campaign in women’s boxing with four podium finishes.
Jaismine dominated Paris Olympics silver medallist Julia Szeremeta of Poland in the 57kg final on Saturday, prevailing 4-1 on the judges’ scorecards (30-27, 29-28, 30-27, 28-29, 29-28). “I have no words to describe how I am feeling,” Jaismine said. “I had got out in the quarterfinals in the previous two Worlds, but I got the boost from the World Cup win and I decided I want to win one-sided matches. I just concentrated on my strategy and game.”
The following day, Minakshi followed suit in the 48kg final, out-punching Paris Olympics bronze medallist Nazym Kyzaibay of Kazakhstan 4-1 to claim gold and avenge her World Cup defeat in July. The 24-year-old from Rurki used her long reach and precision to keep the seasoned 31-year-old at bay, responding with aggression in the final round to secure victory.
The celebrations were bolstered by Nupur Sheoran (80+kg) and veteran Pooja Rani (80kg), who added silver and bronze medals, respectively, in non-Olympic categories. Nupur went down 2-3 to Poland’s Agata Kaczmarska, while Pooja was defeated 1-4 by local favourite Emily Asquith in the semifinals.
Jaismine’s performance was a masterclass in tactical adjustment. After losing the opening round 2-3, she recalibrated her approach in the second, using her jab and long reach to dominate Szeremeta and turn the bout decisively in her favour. At the medal ceremony, her eyes glistened as the Indian national anthem reverberated through the arena.
Minakshi’s victory showcased composure and strategic acumen. After dropping the opening round, she raised her aggression in the final round, landing crisp straight punches and keeping the experienced Kazakh at a distance, turning the contest in her favour.
With these wins, Jaismine and Minakshi join India’s illustrious list of female world champions, including six-time winner Mary Kom, two-time champion Nikhat Zareen, Sarita Devi, Jenny RL, Lekha KC, Nitu Ghanghas, Lovlina Borgohain and Saweety Boora.
India concluded the tournament with four medals, marking its best-ever haul in an overseas edition of the women’s World Boxing Championships.
Also read: Three more women pugilists reach finals
Follow us
