Former Asian Games gold medallist Amit Panghal and Haryana heavyweight Sagar began their respective campaigns on a positive note at the Elite Men and Women Senior National Boxing Championships, currently underway at Gautam Buddha University, Greater Noida.
Competing against a strong national field, both boxers showcased grit and class to advance in their weight categories, underlining the depth and competitiveness of India’s domestic boxing circuit.
This year’s championships mark a significant milestone for Indian boxing, as it is the first time the men’s and women’s National Championships are being staged simultaneously at the same venue. The combined event has drawn over 600 boxers from across the country, competing in 10 weight categories each for men and women, making it one of the largest editions of the Nationals in recent memory. The format not only brings logistical efficiency but also adds to the competitive intensity, with multiple bouts unfolding in parallel across the venue.
Leading the charge on the opening day was Amit Panghal, representing the Services Sports Control Board (SSCB). Competing in the bantamweight category, Panghal delivered a composed and authoritative performance against Usman Mohd Sultan of Bihar, securing a unanimous decision victory. From the opening bell, Panghal controlled the center of the ring, using his trademark footwork and sharp counterpunching to keep his opponent at bay. His ability to dictate the pace and land clean scoring punches impressed the judges, who were unanimous in their verdict.
For Panghal, the win serves as a strong statement of intent as he looks to reassert himself on the national stage. The 2018 Asian Games gold medallist has long been one of India’s most consistent performers, and his disciplined display in Greater Noida suggests he is in good rhythm early in the competition. With the Nationals often acting as a key platform for selection and momentum ahead of international assignments, Panghal’s smooth start will only boost his confidence.
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In contrast to Panghal’s dominant outing, Sagar of Haryana was made to work hard for his victory in the heavyweight category. Facing Edwin of Kerala, Sagar found himself in a closely fought contest where neither boxer was willing to give an inch. Edwin matched Sagar’s physicality and tested him with sustained pressure, turning the bout into a tactical and endurance-heavy battle. However, Sagar’s composure in the later rounds and his ability to land telling blows at crucial moments helped him edge past his opponent, eventually earning a split decision win.
The heavyweight bout highlighted the increasing competitiveness within the domestic circuit, particularly in the higher weight categories where margins are often slim. For Sagar, the hard-fought win will be a valuable learning experience as the championship progresses, reinforcing the need for consistency and tactical clarity in closely contested matches.
Adding to the day’s action in the bantamweight division was Lalrambuat of Mizoram, who also advanced with a unanimous decision victory, defeating Santosh Kumar of Odisha. Lalrambuat’s performance further underlined the strong representation and rising standards of boxers from India’s northeastern states, a region that has steadily produced technically sound and fearless fighters at the national level.
With several early-round bouts already offering a glimpse into the depth of talent on display, the opening day of the Senior National Boxing Championships set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament. The presence of established names alongside emerging contenders ensures that each round will bring fresh challenges and high-quality matchups.
As the championships progress, attention will remain firmly on experienced campaigners like Amit Panghal, while boxers such as Sagar will look to build on their early momentum. With national pride, selection opportunities, and reputations on the line, the battles at Greater Noida are set to intensify in the days ahead.
