Guiyang: Reigning world champion Minakshi continued her impressive form at the World Boxing Cup (Stage 2) in Guiyang, China, advancing to the women’s 51kg quarterfinals with a commanding victory on Thursday. The Indian boxer produced a dominant performance to secure her place among the last eight and keep India’s strong campaign on track.
Competing in the Olympic 51kg weight category, Minakshi registered a convincing 5-0 unanimous decision victory over Poland’s Natalia Kuczewska. The win highlighted the Indian boxer’s growing confidence as she continues to compete successfully in a higher weight division despite being the current World No. 1 in the 48kg category.
Her clinical display ensured a smooth passage to the quarterfinal stage and strengthened India’s medal hopes at the prestigious tournament.
Dominant performance by Minakshi
Minakshi controlled the bout from the outset, displaying superior technique, movement and ring awareness against her Polish opponent.
The Indian boxer consistently landed effective punches while maintaining defensive discipline, leaving little room for Natalia Kuczewska to gain momentum during the contest.
All five judges scored the bout in favour of Minakshi, resulting in a unanimous decision and underlining the one-sided nature of the encounter.
The victory continues a remarkable run for the reigning world champion, who remains one of India’s strongest prospects for a podium finish at the tournament.
Abhinash Jamwal exits tournament
While Minakshi progressed comfortably, it was a disappointing day for Abhinash Jamwal in the men’s 65kg category.
The Indian boxer suffered a 0-5 defeat against Kyrgyzstan’s Mirzokhid Imamnazarov, bringing his campaign to an end.
Despite his best efforts, Jamwal was unable to overcome his opponent, who delivered a disciplined performance to secure a unanimous decision victory and advance to the next round.
Five Indians reach quarterfinals
India’s campaign at the World Boxing Cup has gathered momentum, with five boxers successfully progressing to the quarterfinal stage.
The quarterfinalists include Nikhil in the men’s 55kg division, Deepak in the men’s 70kg category, Minakshi in women’s 51kg, Prachi in women’s 57kg and Saneh in women’s 65kg.
Their advancement reflects India’s strong presence across multiple weight categories and keeps the country’s hopes alive for multiple medals.
Jyoti and Jugnoo assure medals
India has already secured two medals at the competition through the performances of Jyoti and Jugnoo.
Jyoti advanced to the semifinals in the women’s 48kg category, while Jugnoo booked a place in the last four of the women’s 85kg division.
As semifinalists, both boxers are guaranteed at least bronze medals, providing an early boost to India’s medal tally.
Their success has further strengthened the team’s overall performance at the tournament.
Key quarterfinal clashes ahead
The upcoming quarterfinals will present tough challenges for the Indian contingent.
Minakshi is set to face Kazakhstan’s Alua Balkibekova in what is expected to be a highly competitive contest in the women’s 51kg category.
In the women’s 65kg division, Saneh will take on Poland’s Kinga Krowka, while Prachi will face Chinese Taipei’s Shih Yi Wu in the 57kg category.
On the men’s side, Nikhil will meet Azerbaijan’s Amin Mammadzada in a crucial bout for a place in the semifinals.
With several Indian boxers still in contention and two medals already assured, the national team will be looking to build on its strong start and secure more podium finishes at the World Boxing Cup in Guiyang.