Nikhat Zareen Rolls into WWBC 2nd Round

Reigning World Champion Nikhat Zareen made an impressive start to her title defense journey at the Women’s World Boxing Championships on Thursday. The home favourite displayed her dominance and skill, as she marked a formidable victory over Anakhanim Ismayilova of Azerbaijan through an RSC (referee stops contest) triumph. Despite being unseeded, Nikhat’s aggressive performance from the outset stunned her competition, showcasing a fierce determination to secure her spot as the best in the 50kg category. With a barrage of combination punches, she overwhelmed Ismayilova and emerged victorious. The next challenge is a thrilling face-off with the top seed and 2022 African champion, Roumaysa Boualam, in the round of 32, where Nikhat would undoubtedly display her incredible prowess once again.

The excitement in the air was palpable as Nikhat stepped into the ring, marking the beginning of the much-awaited tournament. With her Commonwealth Games gold medal adding a sparkle to her reputation, she ensured that the fans were not left disappointed. Although the initial moments saw her sizing up her Azerbaijani opponent, it wasn’t long before she cracked the code, unleashing her fearsome skills upon her counterpart. The sheer dominance displayed by the Indian pugilist led to the referee giving Ismayilova the ‘count’ thrice, ultimately halting the showdown in the second round. Unfazed by the lack of seeding, Nikhat was confident about her prospects, acknowledging that as the competition progresses, she would face tougher opponents. The pride in being the first to represent India in this tournament was evident in her words, reflecting her determination to not only kick off the proceedings but also bring it to a triumphant end.

Sakshi Chaudhary made an impressive start to her Olympic boxing debut by thrashing Colombian boxer Martinez Maria Jose with a 5-0 unanimous decision win. The Indian fighter demonstrated strong jabs and powerful counters over her opponent, propelling the debutante right into the pre-quarterfinals where she will face Kazakhstan’s Urakbayeva Zhazira. Another Indian boxer, Nupur Sheoran, also emerged victorious in her Round of 16 bout against Abiola Jackman of Guyana by demonstrating brilliant offensive moves. But now she will meet a more formidable opponent Lazzat Kungeibayeva from Kazakhstan, who is the 2016 world champion. With both Indian boxers now competing in the quarter-finals, fans are sure that whichever fighter makes it to the next round can create history for India at this year’s Olympics.

Day 1 of the tournament ended on a high note for the host nation as Preeti’s RSC triumphed over Hungary’s Hanna Lakotar in the 54kg opening round, ensuring an unbeaten record for the hosts. She is set to face last edition’s silver medalist Lacramioara Perijoc of Romania in the upcoming second round. Day 2 is highly anticipated with Rio Olympics champion Estelle Mossely, five-time World Championships medalist Elif Guneri, reigning Asian Champion Oh Yeon-Ji, and former world champions Alessia Mesiano and Lina Wang, all gearing up to begin their respective campaigns. Among the Indian contenders, fans are looking forward to witnessing Jaismine Lamboria, Shashi Chopra, and Shruti Yadav in the Round of 32, hoping for more victories and impressive performances. The excitement continues to mount as the tournament unfolds, showcasing fierce competition and moments of great athleticism.