Nikhat Zareen of India
Liverpool, England, is currently the epicenter of the boxing world. It is hosting the historic inaugural World Boxing Championships for both men and women from September 4-14, 2025. This event at the M&S Bank Arena marks a new chapter for the sport. It brings together more than 550 boxers from over 60 nations under the newly formed global body, World Boxing. As the tournament progresses toward the finals on September 14, here’s a look at the latest news and highlights from the women’s elite competition.
Day 3 Highlights: Team USA and India Shine
Day 3 of the championships saw some electrifying performances, with Team USA and India making strong statements.
* Team USA’s Dominance: The United States had a successful day with two key victories on the women’s side. Tokyo 2020 Olympian Naomi Graham had a stellar debut in the 75kg bracket, securing a unanimous 5-0 decision against Spain’s Dunia Martinez Mas. Graham’s tactical head movement and powerful right hand proved too much for her opponent, earning her a spot in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Paris 2024 Olympian Jajaira Gonzalez delivered a resilient performance in the 60kg division. After trailing in the first round, Gonzalez intensified her attack to clinch a 4-0 victory and advance to the Round of 16.
Team USA Elite Boxing Roster
* India’s Mixed Fortunes: India’s contingent has shown remarkable form, with several boxers advancing. Two-time world champion and Paris 2024 Olympian Nikhat Zareen had a confident start, blanking USA’s Jennifer Lozano with a decisive 5-0 win in the 51kg category. However, the tournament saw an upset when Tokyo 2020 bronze medalist Lovlina Borgohain was defeated 5-0 by Türkiye’s Busra Isildar in the second round of the 75kg division. It unfortunately, brings her tournament to an early end.
Key Storylines and Controversies
* A Historic First: This championship is the first time that men’s and women’s elite events are being held together, a significant step in promoting gender equality in the sport.
* Genetic Testing Controversy: The championships have also been marked by a significant controversy surrounding new genetic sex testing rules. Algerian Olympic gold medalist Imane Khelif has been barred from competing after refusing to undergo the new tests. Five female French boxers were also ruled out for failing to submit their test results on time, a move that has sparked debate and highlights the complex issues facing the sport’s new governing body.
What’s Next?
With the preliminary rounds nearing their end, the competition is set to intensify. The quarter-finals, a day of 32 medal bouts, are scheduled for Wednesday, September 10. The semi-finals and finals will take place from September 12-14, where 20 new world champions—10 men and 10 women—will be crowned.
For fans, the excitement is just beginning. Stay tuned for more results and highlights as the world’s best female boxers battle it out for glory in Liverpool.
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