Abhinash Jamwal, a rising star in Indian boxing, delivered a commanding performance to secure a place in the 65kg final at the World Boxing Cup in Foz Do Iguacu, Brazil. With a display of agility, strategy, and power, the 22-year-old from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, outclassed Italy’s Gianluigi Malanga to claim a unanimous 5-0 victory and move a step closer to a coveted gold medal. Jamwal’s dominant showing is the latest in a string of impressive results for the Indian boxing contingent at this elite international competition.
Flawless Display Against Malanga
Using his height advantage and athletic frame, Jamwal kept a safe distance from his opponent while landing effective punches with precision. He remained calm and focused, capitalizing on every opening Malanga offered. The Italian found himself under pressure early in the bout, even enduring a standing count in the first round, which allowed Jamwal to dictate the tempo. Judges unanimously awarded the first and third rounds to the Indian, with four of the five judges giving Jamwal a perfect score of 30.
The performance cemented Jamwal’s place in the final, where he will face Brazilian boxer Yuri Reis, a local favorite. With this win, he becomes the second Indian boxer at the tournament to reach the final.
Indian Boxers Make Their Mark
Jamwal’s success continues his exceptional domestic form, having won the national title earlier this year by defeating notable names like Shiva Thapa and 2022 Youth World Champion Vanshaj Kumar. His consistent performances have positioned him as one of the top prospects in Indian boxing.
He joins Hitesh Gulia, who also booked a spot in the final after defeating French Olympian Makan Traore in the 70kg weight category. Gulia will face England’s Odel Kamara in the final bout.
Meanwhile, Manish Rathore’s run in the 55kg division ended in the semifinals with a 0:5 loss to Kazakhstan’s Nursultan Altynbek. Other Indian semifinalists included Jadumani Singh Mandengbam (50kg), Vishal (90kg), and Sachin (60kg), all of whom delivered spirited performances but fell short in their respective bouts.
This World Boxing Cup marks the first global elite event organized by World Boxing featuring Indian participation, and the 10-member squad has showcased commendable talent and potential by securing two final berths and four bronze medals.
