Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 11: Experienced Indian boxer Pooja Rani moved into the women’s 80kg semifinals at the ongoing World Boxing Championships, guaranteeing herself a medal and marking a historic milestone in her career.
The 34-year-old, who received a first-round bye, edged past Emilia Koterska of Poland with a 3-2 split decision in a hard-fought quarterfinal bout late Wednesday night. Rani relied on her extensive experience to overcome the teenage Polish boxer in the non-Olympic 80kg category, which features 12 competitors in this edition.
With her victory, Pooja joins Jaaismine Lamboria (57kg) and Nupur Sheoran (80+kg) in securing medals for India at the tournament, reflecting the growing strength of Indian women boxers on the world stage.
Meanwhile, India’s men’s campaign suffered a setback as Abhinash Jamwal bowed out in the 65kg quarterfinals with a 1-4 loss to Olympic bronze medallist Lasha Guruli of Georgia. Only Jadumani Singh (50kg) remains in contention in the men’s bracket, set to face reigning world champion Sanzhar Tashkenbay of Kazakhstan in the last-eight stage.
Against Koterska, Pooja started cautiously in the opening round, with both fighters exchanging blows but landing few punches. The Pole took the round 3-2. Rani significantly raised her performance in the middle round, connecting powerful hooks to take the round on all judges’ cards. By the final round, Pooja’s composure and precise backhands ensured she sealed the victory, securing her spot on the podium.
In the semifinals, Pooja will face local favourite Emily Asquith, keeping India’s hopes alive for another strong medal finish at the championships.