Archive · 16 Nov 2025
Preeti Pawar Triumphs in World Boxing Cup Finals Comeback
Four Indian boxers are guaranteed to win medals at the World Boxing Cup Finals!
Preeti Pawar, who was sick with Hepatitis A for a year, made an amazing comeback.
She beat a tough opponent from Uzbekistan using speed and skill.
World Champion Minakshi also won her match against a boxer from Kazakhstan.
These wins mean they have reached the semifinals, which is the stage just before the finals.
Preeti had to train extra hard after her illness, focusing on endurance to get back in shape.
Her strong performance proved her hard work paid off.
Preeti Pawar secured a dominant 5-0 unanimous victory in her return to international boxing at the World Boxing Cup Finals, overcoming Nigina Uktamova of Uzbekistan.
Pawar, who had been sidelined for 15 months due to Hepatitis A contracted after the Paris Olympics, showcased improved stamina, defensive movements, and counterattack skills.
Reigning world champion Minakshi Hooda also made a winning start in the 48kg category, defeating Bolat Akbot of Kazakhstan 5-0.
Both Pawar and Hooda's victories mean they have reached the semifinals, guaranteeing at least a bronze medal for India.
The World Boxing Cup Finals is a high-level competition where other Indian male boxers are also scheduled to compete.
- Who
- Preeti Pawar, Minakshi Hooda (Indian boxers); Nigina Uktamova (Uzbekistan), Bolat Akbot (Kazakhstan)
- What
- Preeti Pawar won her comeback bout against Nigina Uktamova, and Minakshi Hooda also secured a victory at the World Boxing Cup Finals. Both Indian boxers advanced in their respective categories.
- When
- Sunday (implied November 16)
- Where
- Greater Noida, India
- Why
- To compete in the World Boxing Cup Finals and advance towards securing medals.
Preeti Pawar's Comeback Strategy
Opponent's Performance
Preeti Pawar vs. Nigina Uktamova
Preeti Pawar's Comeback Strategy
Preeti Pawar, returning after a 15-month absence due to Hepatitis A, focused on improving stamina with endurance training, including longer sparring sessions and running. She utilized quick footwork, sharp combinations, and improved defensive and counterattack movements. Her coach noted a focus on sideways movement to open opponent's defense.
Opponent's Performance
Nigina Uktamova, a fellow Asian Games bronze medallist, struggled to match Preeti's pace and intensity. She was unable to counter Preeti's offensive and defensive strategies effectively.
Minakshi Hooda vs. Bolat Akbot
Preeti Pawar's Comeback Strategy
World Champion Minakshi Hooda demonstrated fast footwork and sharp combinations to gain control of the bout after an initial exchange of punches.
Opponent's Performance
Bolat Akbot of Kazakhstan began the bout with clear intentions but ultimately could not keep pace with Minakshi's offense.
- Event
- World Boxing Cup Finals
- Location
- Greater Noida, India
- Preeti Pawar's Category
- Women's 54kg
- Preeti Pawar's Opponent
- Nigina Uktamova (Uzbekistan)
- Minakshi Hooda's Category
- 48kg
- Minakshi Hooda's Opponent
- Bolat Akbot (Kazakhstan)
- Preeti Pawar's Health Issue
- Hepatitis A
- Preeti Pawar's Previous Competition
- 2024 Paris Olympics
Sources
World Champ Minakshi to lead India on Day 1 of World Boxing Cup Finals
World Boxing Cup Finals: All you need to know about fixtures, live streaming & squads
World Boxing Cup Finals 2025: India off to perfect start as Minakshi, Preeti, Ankush & Narender secure medals
World Boxing Cup Finals 2025: Minakshi, Preeti, Ankush and Berwal lead India’s perfect start
Preeti Pawar storms into semis after year-long setback
