In a breakthrough moment for Indian boxing, national champion Hitesh delivered a masterclass in tactical brilliance to become the first Indian boxer to reach the final of the World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025, held in Foz do Iguaçu.
Facing France’s seasoned Olympian Makan Traore in the 70kg semifinal, Hitesh executed a calculated game plan to perfection, earning a 5:0 unanimous decision and etching his name in the history books.
A Tactical Triumph
Hitesh approached the bout with controlled aggression, showing immense respect for Traore’s pedigree but never backing down from the challenge.
Choosing to adopt a measured, counter-attacking approach, the Indian pugilist maintained composure throughout the contest, dictating the tempo and keeping his opponent at bay.
Even when a penalty was handed to him in the third and final round, Hitesh’s dominance ensured the outcome was never in doubt. His ring IQ, precision in counterpunching, and ability to control the ring space stood out—hallmarks of a maturing, high-caliber boxer.
He now faces Odel Kamara of England in the summit clash—a bout that promises fireworks and an opportunity for India to claim its maiden gold at the World Boxing Cup.
Path to the Final: A Statement of Intent
Quarterfinals:
Hitesh’s rise has been anything but accidental. In the quarterfinals, he dismantled Italy’s Gabriele Guidi Rontani with a commanding performance, again winning via a unanimous decision (5:0). His blend of footwork, timing, and sharp combinations overwhelmed his Italian opponent.
Other Indian Contenders: Mixed Fortunes in Brazil
While Hitesh leads India’s charge to the final, several other Indian boxers delivered valiant efforts, with some falling just short of the medal round.
Jadumani Singh Mandengbam (50kg):
Jadumani showed grit and resolve against 2024 silver medallist Ellis Trowbridge (Great Britain) in the quarterfinals, prevailing 3:2 in a tense contest. But in the semifinals, he was narrowly edged out by Asilbek Jalilov (Uzbekistan) via a 2:3 split decision—a heartbreakingly close defeat that showcased his growing potential on the international stage.
Vishal (90kg):
Faced with the towering task of fighting Uzbekistan’s Turabek Khabibullaev, Vishal fell short, going down 0:5 in a bout dominated by the Uzbek powerhouse.
Sachin (60kg):
Sachin faced a skilled opponent in Pawel Brach of Poland and was unable to break through, ending India’s campaign in the 60kg category.
Quarterfinal Highs: Rathore and Jamwal Impress
In earlier rounds, Manish Rathore (55kg) and Abhinash Jamwal (65kg) showcased their talent and hunger for success:
- Rathore, up against Yusuf Chothia—an Australian Olympian—delivered a composed performance, winning on a 3:0 majority verdict despite the high-quality exchanges.
- Jamwal overwhelmed Germany’s Denis Bril in a technically sound bout, sealing his place in the semifinals via a clear 5:0 result.
However, both Rathore and Jamwal are yet to fight their semifinal bouts as of the latest updates, with Rathore set to face Kazakhstan’s Nursultan Altynbek, and Jamwal locking horns with Italy’s Gianluigi Malanga.
Challenges in the Heavier Divisions
India’s campaign in the upper weight categories met stiff resistance:
- Nikhil Dubey (75kg) lost 0:5 to Brazilian local hero Kaue Belini.
- Jugnoo (85kg) was edged out 1:4 by France’s Abdoulaye Traore.
- Narender (90+kg) came tantalizingly close to upsetting Kazakhstan’s Daniyal Saparbay, even receiving a 30-27 verdict from one judge, but eventually lost 2:3 on a split decision.
India’s Rising Profile in Global Boxing
Hitesh’s entry into the final of the World Boxing Cup is not just a personal milestone—it’s a sign of India’s evolving depth and tactical evolution in global boxing. His journey from national champion to world-level finalist reflects the growing investments in grassroots training, international exposure, and scientific coaching.
Next Stop: The Final Showdown
All eyes are now on the 70kg final between Hitesh and England’s Odel Kamara. A victory would not only make Hitesh the first Indian to reach a World Boxing Cup final—but also the first to win it.
India awaits. Can Hitesh deliver one final punch of glory?
