Lovlina Borgohain Withdraws from World Boxing Cup Finals Due to Nose Issue; Saweety Boora Steps In
Tokyo Olympics medallist Lovlina Borgohain withdraws from the World Boxing Cup Finals due to a nose issue. Saweety Boora replaces her in India’s strong host-nation squad.
New Delhi is abuzz with preparations for the upcoming World Boxing Cup Finals. However, a significant development has emerged from the Indian camp: Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain will not be competing.
The former middleweight world champion has withdrawn from the prestigious season-ending event, much to the surprise of many. Her absence casts a spotlight on India’s formidable squad as they prepare to host the tournament.
Lovlina’s Unexpected Withdrawal: A Setback for India
Lovlina Borgohain, celebrated for her historic bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, had initially qualified for the World Boxing Cup Finals based on her impressive world ranking in the 75kg weight division.
However, her participation has been curtailed due to a nose-related medical issue that required treatment.
The Reason Behind Her Absence
The boxing star confirmed her withdrawal, stating, “Yes, I won’t participate in the event. I have taken my name back.”
She further explained, “I had some nose-related issue and underwent treatment for the same. It didn’t require surgery. I am doing fine but I need some time to recover.”
Sources indicate that Borgohain underwent a reshaping procedure for her nose, attributed to an enlarged nasal bone. This treatment led her to skip the crucial preparatory camp at NIS Patiala.
New Faces in the 75kg and 80kg Divisions
In Lovlina’s absence in the 75kg category, former world champion Saweety Boora has been named as a replacement. Boora previously competed in the 80kg class.
With Boora moving to 75kg, Pooja Rani will now step in to compete in the 80kg division. These changes highlight the depth of talent within the Indian women’s boxing team.
India’s Strong Showing as Host Nation
Despite Lovlina’s absence, India is set to field a full-strength squad, showcasing 10 boxers each in both the men’s and women’s weight categories. This is a special privilege extended to India as the host nation by World Boxing, the sport’s global governing body.
While only the world’s top eight boxers per division typically qualify, India will be the only country to have all 10 slots filled in both genders.
Women’s Squad: A Mix of Qualifiers and Host Entries
The Indian women’s team is a powerful blend of top-ranked qualifiers and talented host nation representatives:
- Rank-based Qualifiers:
- Minakshi Hooda (48kg)
- Nikhat Zareen (51kg)
- Jaismine Lamboria (57kg)
- Pooja Rani (80kg)
- Nupur Sheoran (+80kg)
- Host Nation Entries:
- Saweety Boora (75kg)
- Preeti Pawar (54kg)
- Parveen (60kg)
- Neeraj Phogat (65kg)
- Arundhati Choudhary (70kg)
Men’s Squad: Leveraging Home Advantage
The men’s competition will also see a robust Indian presence. Jadumani Singh (50kg) and Abhinash Jamwal (65kg) qualified based on their world rankings.
The remaining eight participants in the men’s squad will compete by virtue of India hosting the prestigious event, promising an exciting display of talent on home soil.
The World Boxing Cup Finals: What to Expect
The World Boxing Cup Finals are scheduled to take place from November 16-20 at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida.
This tournament will bring together approximately 130 elite boxers from 18 nations across four continents, promising intense competition and thrilling bouts.
Conclusion
While Lovlina Borgohain’s withdrawal from the World Boxing Cup Finals due to a nose-related issue is undoubtedly a blow, the Indian boxing squad remains strong and determined. With replacements like Saweety Boora stepping up and the advantage of fielding a full contingent as the host nation, India is poised for a significant performance.
Fans can look forward to a week of high-octane boxing action in Greater Noida, as the nation’s best, alongside international talent, vie for top honors.