Services boxers dominate inaugural BFI Cup 2025

Services boxers once again stamped their authority on the national stage as the men’s segment of the inaugural BFI Cup 2025 concluded in Chennai on Tuesday. The competition saw top performers like S. Vishwanath, Mohammad Husamuddin, Vanshaj, Sachin and Ankush clinching gold medals for the dominant Services contingent.

Asian U-22 champion S. Vishwanath set the tone with a commanding 5:0 victory over Ashish of Haryana in the 50kg category. Ashish of Services edged past Navraj (AIP) 3:2 in a thrilling 55kg final, demonstrating the competitive depth of the field. World Championships bronze medallist Mohammad Husamuddin continued his impressive run, defeating Sagar Jakhar of SAI 5:0 in the 60kg bout.

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The 65kg contest turned out to be a close affair with Vanshaj (Services) prevailing over teammate Preet Malik 3:2, while Sumit Kumar (SAI) displayed dominance in the 70kg final, securing a 5:0 victory over Rajat (Services).

Services maintained their momentum as Sachin delivered a commanding 5:0 win against Neeraj (Haryana) in the 75kg bout, followed by Ankush’s one-sided 5:0 triumph over Aman (Chandigarh) in the 80kg final.

In the heavier divisions, Naveen Boora (Services) overcame Vinit (Railways) 3:0 in the 85kg category, while Daksh (SAI) narrowly defeated Vishal Gupta (Services) 3:2 to claim the 90kg title. The super heavyweight final saw Sawan Gill (Chandigarh) edge past Lakshya Rathi (SAI) 3:2 in a closely contested 90+kg bout.

With seven gold medals, Services emerged as the top-performing unit, followed by Haryana and Railways, who finished second and third in the overall medal tally.

The individual accolades highlighted standout performers across categories. Among women, Maharashtra’s Khushi Jadhav (54kg) was named Best Boxer, Rajasthan’s Parthavi Grehwal (65kg) earned the Best Challenger award, and Tamil Nadu’s G. Resika (80+kg) was recognised as the Most Promising Boxer.

In the men’s section, Services’ Ashish (55kg) took home the Best Boxer award, Lakshya Rathi (SAI, 90+kg) was named Best Challenger, and Tamil Nadu’s Lukas (50kg) received the Most Promising Boxer honour.

The BFI Cup 2025 showcased top talent from state units, Services, Railways, SAI NCOE, and other boards, including medalists from recent National Games, Elite Nationals and international tournaments, underlining the depth and competitiveness of Indian boxing on the national circuit.