New Delhi: As the boxing world celebrates its return to the Olympic stage, the inaugural World Boxing Cup in Foz do Iguacu, Brazil, marks a significant milestone for the sport. At the forefront of India’s efforts is Asian Games bronze medallist Narender Berwal, leading a 10-member team into this prestigious event. This tournament is the first to be hosted by World Boxing following its provisional recognition by the International Olympic Committee in February and the reinstatement of boxing in the 2028 LA Olympics.
The Indian contingent, comprised entirely of male boxers, represents a new chapter in the sport’s international landscape. The absence of female boxers is due to the recent conclusion of the women’s National Championships, which could not provide sufficient time for preparation. The Brazilian event signals India’s first foray into World Boxing’s newly introduced weight categories, a shift that will redefine the sport’s competitive dynamics.
The team includes reigning National Champions from January’s championships, except for Sumit, who is unfit to compete in the 85kg category. Notably absent from the lineup are experienced boxers like Nishant Dev, Amit Panghal, Shiva Thapa, and Deepak Bhoria, who have either turned professional or were otherwise engaged.
This six-day tournament will host over 130 boxers from 19 countries, including notable Olympians, marking a robust return to international competition. On the opening day, Lakshya Chahar will face off against Wanderley Pereira of Brazil in the 80kg pre-quarterfinals, setting the stage for a high-stakes competition that will test the mettle of Indian boxers on their first outing in the new weight categories.
