Indian boxing’s brightest stars, Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain, have powered their way into the finals of the Elite Women’s Boxing Tournament 2025, held at the Saroornagar Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad. Their dominant performances not only electrified the home crowd but also underlined India’s growing strength in women’s boxing.
Nikhat Zareen: Home Favourite Marches On
Two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen once again proved her class in front of her home fans. In the 51kg semifinal, she delivered a flawless performance against Tamil Nadu’s V. Lakshaya, winning by a clean 5:0 decision. Nikhat’s sharp combinations and tactical movement left little room for her opponent to respond.
Nikhat’s Road to the Final
Quarterfinal: Defeated Kalpana (Hyderabad) 5:0
Semifinal: Beat V. Lakshaya (Tamil Nadu) 5:0
Final Opponent: Jyoti (RSPB)
Nikhat’s journey is especially inspiring considering her comeback from a major shoulder injury in 2017, which kept her out of the ring for nearly a year. Her relentless drive and international pedigree have made her one of India’s top medal hopes.
Lovlina Borgohain: Olympic Medallist Eyes Gold
Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain was equally impressive in the 75kg category. She cruised into the final after overpowering Uttar Pradesh’s Sneha via a first-round stoppage (RSC). Lovlina’s power and precision forced the referee to halt the contest, a testament to her dominant form.
Lovlina’s Tournament Highlights
Quarterfinal: Defeated Krisha Verma (Punjab) by unanimous decision
Semifinal: Beat Sneha (Uttar Pradesh) via RSC in the first round
Final Opponent: [To be updated]
Lovlina’s success adds to her growing legacy, following her historic bronze at Tokyo 2020 and her maiden world title in 2023.
Other Indian Stars Shine
The Elite Women’s Boxing Tournament 2025 has seen several top Indian boxers advance to the finals:
- Nitu Ghanghas (48kg): Defeated Manju Rani to reach the final
- Saweety Boora (80kg): Outclassed Babita Bisht 5:0 in the semifinals
- Ankushita Boro (65kg): Former youth world champion, also in the semifinals
Organized by the Telangana Boxing Federation under the aegis of the Boxing Federation of India and the Sports Authority of Telangana, the tournament features India’s best talent from 15 units, including top teams from the recent Elite Nationals.
What’s at Stake?
National Camp Selection: Gold and silver medallists will earn spots at the elite national camp in Patiala.
Future International Representation: The tournament serves as a crucial platform for selection to major international events, including the Olympics and World Championships.
FAQs: Nikhat Zareen & Lovlina Borgohain at Elite Women’s Boxing 2025
Q1: Who did Nikhat Zareen defeat to reach the final?
A1: Nikhat Zareen defeated V. Lakshaya of Tamil Nadu in the semifinal with a 5:0 decision.
Q2: How did Lovlina Borgohain secure her place in the final?
A2: Lovlina Borgohain beat Sneha from Uttar Pradesh via a first-round stoppage (RSC) in the 75kg semifinal.
Q3: What is the significance of the Elite Women’s Boxing Tournament?
A3: The tournament is a key national event that determines selection for the elite national camp and future international competitions.
Q4: Who are other Indian boxers in the finals?
A4: Nitu Ghanghas (48kg) and Saweety Boora (80kg) have also reached their respective finals.
Q5: Where is the Elite Women’s Boxing Tournament 2025 being held?
A5: The tournament is being held at the Saroornagar Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad.
Conclusion
Nikhat Zareen and Lovlina Borgohain’s march to the finals at the Elite Women’s Boxing Tournament 2025 is a proud moment for Indian sports. Their performances not only inspire the next generation but also reaffirm India’s position as a powerhouse in women’s boxing. With the finals set to be fiercely contested, all eyes will be on Hyderabad as these champions aim for gold and a place in the national camp.
