Nikhat Zareen Clinches India’s Fifth World Boxing Gold, Puts Paris Heartbreak Behind

Nikhat Zareen reaffirmed her stature as one of India’s premier boxers by clinching the 51 kg gold at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Greater Noida, securing India’s fifth title in the women’s category and firmly putting.

The disappointment of the Paris Olympics behind her. The two-time world champion was dominant in the final, outclassing Xuan Yi Guo of Chinese Taipei to claim a unanimous 5–0 verdict.

Her march to the top of the podium was equally commanding. In the semifinal, Nikhat produced a clinical display against Uzbekistan’s Ganieva Gulsevar, using superior footwork, crisp counterpunching and sustained pressure to seal another 5–0 win. Her control over the tempo and exchanges throughout the bout underlined her renewed hunger to return to the summit.

The victory carried deep personal significance for Nikhat, whose Paris campaign ended in the Round of 16 after a shock defeat to China’s Wu Yu, who went on to win the Olympic gold. In Greater Noida, however, she appeared rejuvenated — composed, purposeful and technically assured in every round.

Nikhat’s triumph capped a standout campaign for India’s women boxers. Minakshi Hooda (48 kg), Preeti Pawar (54 kg), Arundhati (70 kg) and Nupur Sheoran (80+ kg) also struck gold, giving India a tally of five titles and underscoring the team’s growing depth and dominance on the global stage.

From the heartbreak of Paris to a statement-making comeback in Greater Noida, Nikhat Zareen’s golden run served as a powerful reminder of her resilience, skill and championship resolve.