Chandrika Pujari Wins Gold at World Boxing Futures Cup

India concluded its campaign at the World Boxing Futures Cup 2026 in Bangkok with a strong medal haul of five medals, including one gold, three silver and one bronze. The tournament, held from March 8 to 15, brought together emerging boxers competing in Youth Olympic weight categories. India’s Under-19 men’s and women’s teams displayed consistent performances throughout the competition, reflecting the steady growth of the country’s youth boxing programme and its increasing competitiveness at the international level.

Chandrika Pujari secures India’s lone gold

Chandrika Pujari delivered the standout performance for India by winning the gold medal in the women’s 51 kg category. She defeated Uzbekistan’s Mardonova Nazokat in the final by a unanimous decision, showcasing technical superiority and strong ring control. Her victory highlighted India’s rising talent in women’s boxing and demonstrated the effectiveness of structured training and international exposure for young athletes.

Three Indian boxers finish with silver medals

India also earned three silver medals after reaching the finals in different categories. Gunjan finished second in the women’s 48 kg division after losing the final to an English opponent by a 5-0 decision. Joyshree Devi secured silver in the women’s 54 kg category after a competitive bout against a boxer from the United States, losing by a 4-1 decision. In the men’s 50 kg division, L. Ambekar Meetei also finished with silver following a final defeat to a Ukrainian boxer.

Radhamani Longjam adds bronze to India’s tally

Radhamani Longjam won the bronze medal in the women’s 57 kg category after reaching the semifinals of the tournament. Her campaign ended after a closely contested bout against Ukraine’s Yevanhelina Petruk. The medal contributed to India’s overall tally and highlighted the depth of talent in the national youth boxing system.

Important Facts for Exams

• The World Boxing Futures Cup features young boxers competing in Youth Olympic weight categories.
• The 2026 edition of the tournament was held in Bangkok, Thailand.
• India finished the event with five medals: one gold, three silver and one bronze.
• The 2026 Summer Youth Olympics will be hosted in Dakar, Senegal.

Tournament boosts preparation for Youth Olympics

The competition served as an important preparatory platform for young boxers ahead of the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics in Dakar. Officials from the global boxing body and the Boxing Federation of India closely followed the tournament. India’s strong performance highlighted the benefits of structured talent development pathways, regular national competitions and international exposure, which are helping young boxers transition effectively to the global stage.