Kamal Ghorui
India wrapped up its campaign at the World Boxing Futures Cup 2026 in Bangkok with an impressive tally of five medals — one gold, three silver and one bronze, highlighting the continued progress of the nation’s youth boxing programme on the global stage.The standout performance came from Chandrika Pujari, who produced a dominant display in the women’s 51kg final to defeat Uzbekistan’s Mardonova Nazokat by a unanimous decision, as stated in an official release.Competing in the Youth Olympic weight divisions, India’s Under-19 men’s and women’s squads showcased strong form against quality international opponents. The team delivered several composed performances throughout the competition, with half of the Indian contingent finishing on the podium.The event was closely watched by Gennadiy Golovkin, President of World Boxing, and Ajay Singh, President of the Boxing Federation of India. India’s showing in Bangkok reflected the strengthening structure of its youth boxing system, where organised development pathways, consistent international exposure and competitive national events are helping young fighters transition smoothly to the world stage.Three Indian boxers finished with silver medals after reaching the finals in their respective categories. Gunjan (48kg) lost her final bout to an opponent from England by a 5-0 decision, while Joyshree Devi (54kg) put up a determined fight before going down 4-1 to a boxer from the United States. In the men’s 50kg division, L. Ambekar Meetei also settled for silver after losing the final to a competitor from Ukraine.Earlier in the tournament, Radhamani Longjam (57kg) secured bronze after her campaign ended in the semifinals following a closely fought contest against Ukraine’s Yevanhelina Petruk.Held from March 8 to 15 in Bangkok, the World Boxing Futures Cup brought together some of the most promising young fighters across the Youth Olympic weight categories. With the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics in Dakar approaching, the tournament served as an important platform for emerging talent, giving India’s young boxers valuable experience against top international competition as they prepare for one of the biggest events in youth sport.
