Indian boxing star Nikhat Zareen has powered into the semi-finals of the Asian Boxing Championship 2026, securing a medal for India with a commanding performance. The two-time World Champion defeated Philippines’ Xian Baguhin by RSC (Referee Stops Contest) in the first round of the quarter-finals on April 3, 2026.
This dominant win guarantees Zareen at least a bronze medal as she advances to face China’s Olympic Champion Wu Yu in the semi-final. A victory there would put her in the final for a shot at gold.
Hailing from Nizamabad, Telangana, the 29-year-old (born June 14, 1996) has defied odds since childhood. Raised in a modest family, she started boxing young under her father’s encouragement and initially trained at local gyms in Nizamabad, often sparring with boys to build her skills. She later joined the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Visakhapatnam, where she honed her technique under Dronacharya awardee coach IV Rao. She has also trained at LB Stadium in Hyderabad.
Zareen’s journey from a small town in Telangana to international glory includes back-to-back World Championship golds in 2022 and 2023. Her fearless style and precise punching continue to inspire millions.
With the semi-final against a tough opponent like Wu Yu ahead, all eyes are on Nikhat Zareen as she aims to add another major accolade to her illustrious career and boost India’s boxing pride