Indian Boxers Shine at World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025
The Indian contingent achieved remarkable success at the World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025, held in Foz do Iguaçu, winning a total of six medals, including one gold and one silver, with the event concluding on Saturday.
Hitesh Gulia made history by becoming the first Indian boxer to secure a gold medal at the World Boxing Cup. He was awarded a walkover in the final of the men’s 70kg weight category because his opponent, Odel Kamara from England, was injured and unable to compete.
Abhinash Jamwal also showcased his talent by reaching the final in the 65kg category. Despite giving his best effort against local favorite Yuri Reis, he ultimately earned a silver medal.
In addition, four Indian boxers—Jadumani Singh Mandengbam (50kg), Manish Rathore (55kg), Sachin (60kg), and Vishal (90kg)—each won bronze medals after being eliminated in the semi-finals. According to Olympic boxing rules, both losing semi-finalists received bronze medals at this event in Brazil.
Following his victory, Hitesh Gulia credited a 10-day preparation camp in Brazil prior to the tournament, which he felt greatly contributed to both his and the team’s performance. “The camp helped me learn a few tactical nuances that were beneficial during the competition. This tournament provided us with fantastic exposure at the highest level, and I’m delighted to have won the gold medal,” said Hitesh.
Over 130 boxers, including Olympians from 19 different countries, participated in this year’s inaugural World Boxing Cup. The competitions featured both men’s and women’s events, but India only fielded teams in the 10 men’s weight categories, as the women’s team missed out due to the senior nationals being held earlier in the month.
This tournament in Brazil is one of three World Boxing Cups scheduled for the year, with Kazakhstan and India set to host the remaining events in June-July and November, respectively. Ranking points will be available at each competition, and the top-ranked boxers will qualify for the season-ending World Boxing Cup Finals.
World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025: Indian medal winners
- Hitesh Gulia (men’s 70kg) – gold medal
- Abhinash Jamwal (men’s 65kg) – silver medal
- Jadumani Singh Mandengbam (men’s 50kg) – bronze medal
- Manish Rathore (men’s 55kg) – bronze medal
- Sachin (men’s 60kg) – bronze medal
- Vishal (men’s 90kg) – bronze medal