Reigning Lightflyweight (48-50kg) champion Anamika Hooda commenced her title defense at the 8th Elite Women's National Boxing Championships 2025 with a knockout victory over Prava Gajneer from Sikkim during the second round on Friday in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India.
The Railways boxer’s impressive beginning at the 2024 BRICS Games set an energetic stage for the event’s commencement, which was observed by IOA President PT Usha, BFI President Ajay Singh, Indian cricket player RP Singh alongside Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh, World Champion Nikhat Zareen, Olympians Sarita Devi and Manoj Kumar, UP Boxing Secretary Pramod Kumar, and numerous other notable figures. This information comes via a statement released by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI).
Organized by the British Film Institute in partnership with the Uttar Pradesh Boxing Association, the championship will be held at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, from March 20 to 27, 2025. A total of 188 athletes representing 24 associations and state units will participate in this weeklong event spanning over ten different weight classes. The competition adheres to the World Boxing Technical & Competition Rules, consisting of three-minute rounds separated by one-minute breaks.
BFI President Ajay Singh showed his excitement as the 8th Elite Women's National Boxing Championship began, saying, “Now that boxing has returned to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, I wish all the athletes well. My hope is to witness several of you competing for India on an international platform and at the Olympic Games, bringing glory to our nation. We aim to watch the Indian tri-color flag hoisted repeatedly and hear the national anthem played frequently in Los Angeles.”
The IOA President and legendary Indian athlete P.T. Usha expressed her excitement about the boxers' enthusiasm, stating, “Yesterday, I received a call from the President, and I’m thrilled to witness these athletes vigorously engaging in their matches within the ring. Regardless of whatever issues might be present either within the organization or beyond in political spheres, they mustn’t impact the players under any circumstances. Maintain focus on your events and pour your heart into them passionately. In my era, we lacked adequate infrastructure, yet we maximized every opportunity at hand. Now, you benefit from substantial backing and resources designed to aid your success. With the competitions now underway, I'm delighted to observe how boxing keeps expanding. It’s wonderful news not only for those participating but also for our nation overall. Best wishes to everyone involved.”
During other significant matches of the day, Devika Ghorpade from Maharashtra secured a clear-cut unanimous decision over Poonam Bisht from All India Police (AIP) in the 48-51 kg division, showcasing her superior technique throughout all three rounds. In another impressive display, Tamanna representing Haryana achieved a commanding knock-out in the second round against Nissy Laissy Thampy from Kerala, thereby progressing alongside Anamika to the subsequent phase.
After crossing the finish line victorious amidst the glamorous audience, Anamika remarked, “I’m thrilled to emerge as the winner (with such esteemed guests around). I dedicated myself entirely—day and night—to prepare for this national championship; my sole objective was to claim the gold medal. My aim is to perform at my peak in each match. Everything has been arranged exceptionally well here—from meals to accommodations—I couldn’t be happier.”
In the tightly fought bout at 48-51 kg, Shobha Kohli from Uttarakhand narrowly defeated Ekta Saroj from Punjab with a split decision of 4 to 1, primarily due to better ring management. Moving on to the 54-57 kg division, Priya representing Haryana secured a convincing victory against Preeti (AIP) with all five judges scoring in her favor.
In another match, Milano M.J from Kerala showcased an impeccable performance against Ladakh’s Nilzaya Angmo in the 45-48 kg weight class. Meanwhile, Rajni representing the Railways Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) secured a decisive victory over Uttar Pradesh’s Rajani Singh with a clear 5:0 scoreline. Additionally, RSPB's Savita demonstrated remarkable skill as she triumphed over Suman Yadav from Goa in the 51-54 kg category.
The intense confrontations on the first day have paved the way for an exciting championship, where World Champion Nitu Ghanghas will face Olympian Jasmine tomorrow. (ANI)
0 Comments