Asian Boxing Championship 2026 : In a day filled with highs and lows for India at the Asian Boxing Championships in Ulaanbaatar, rising star Preeti Pawar delivered a standout performance to secure her place in the final. Meanwhile, experienced names like Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain bowed out after tough semifinal defeats.
Preeti Pawar Outclasses Olympic Medalist
Preeti Pawar showcased remarkable control and confidence as she defeated Paris Olympics bronze medalist Aeji Im of South Korea. The Indian boxer dominated all three rounds, earning a unanimous 5-0 decision from the judges. With this emphatic victory, she has now advanced to the championship bout.
Final Clash Against a Formidable Opponent
In the final, Preeti will face a tough challenge against Chinese Taipei’s Huang Hsiao-Wen, a three-time world champion (2019, 2023, 2025) and Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist. The upcoming bout is expected to test Preeti’s skill and composure at the highest level.
Priya and Arundhati Add to India’s Success
Adding to India’s positive results, Priya and Arundhati Choudhary also registered impressive wins in their respective semifinal matches, ensuring more representation in the finals.
Setbacks for Nikhat, Lovlina, and Others
However, it wasn’t a perfect outing for the Indian contingent. Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain failed to progress beyond the semifinals, ending their campaigns earlier than expected.
Pooja Rani and Ankushita Settle for Bronze
World Championship medalist Pooja Rani and Ankushita Boro also faced disappointment, as both boxers lost their semifinal bouts and had to settle for bronze medals.