India’s boxers shone bright at the World Boxing Futures Cup 2026, wrapping up with five medals including a gold from Chandrika Pujari. The event in Olomouc, Czech Republic, from March 10-16 highlighted emerging talents under 20 years old. Chandrika Pujari stole the show in the women’s 81kg category. In the final, she outboxed Ukraine’s Mariia Kutsai with smart defense and strong punches, winning unanimously 30-27 across judges. This gold marked India’s first top podium finish, boosting national pride. The 19-year-old from Haryana trained hard at the Inspire Institute, crediting coach George Francis for her prep.
India grabbed one gold, two silvers, and two bronzes for fifth place overall. Silvers came from Nisha (48kg), who lost a close 29-28 bout to Ireland’s Katie McCann, and Sachin (80kg), edged out by Kazakhstan’s Madiyar Madiyar. Bronzes went to Kranti (50kg) and Yug (67kg) after semifinal wins. Over 350 boxers from 45 nations fought in 13 weight classes, with strict rules like headguards for women.
The tournament tested futures stars for Olympic cycles. India’s prep included camps in Patiala and Spars, focusing on stamina and tactics. Women boxers led with three medals. ISSF and AIBA backed the event for clean, fair sport.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
Q1: What weight class did Chandrika Pujari win gold in?
Chandrika won gold in women’s 81kg, beating Ukraine’s Mariia Kutsai 30-27 in the final at World Boxing Futures Cup 2026.
Q2: How many medals did India win overall?
India finished with five medals: 1 gold, 2 silvers, 2 bronzes, placing fifth among 45 nations in Olomouc.
Q3: Who were India’s other medal winners?
Silvers for Nisha (48kg) and Sachin (80kg); bronzes for Kranti (50kg) and Yug (67kg) in tough bouts.
(*Image Source- The Times of India)