Hitesh, Preeti power India to dominant Opening Day at BOXAM Elite

India enjoyed a commanding start to its campaign at the BOXAM Elite International 2026, producing a series of impressive performances on the opening day of the prestigious tournament, which has attracted 214 boxers from 21 countries.

World Boxing Cup Finals champions Hitesh Gulia (70kg) and Preeti (54kg) led the charge for India, both registering emphatic victories as the hosts tasted success across multiple weight categories.

Advertisement

Hitesh was in complete control in the elite men’s 70kg bout, outclassing Finn Bos of the Netherlands with a unanimous 5:0 decision. Displaying trademark composure and tactical awareness, the Indian boxer dictated the pace throughout, using sharp timing and ring intelligence to remain firmly on top from start to finish.

Earlier, Preeti set the tone for India in the elite women’s 54kg division, securing a comprehensive 5:0 win over Kazakhstan’s Aliaskar Symbat. She combined crisp combinations with disciplined defence to dominate the contest and leave her opponent with little room to respond.

India’s women continued their strong showing as Prachi (57kg), Priya (60kg) and Kajal (65kg) also advanced with confident performances. Prachi and Priya cruised to identical 5:0 victories against Vanesa Morell Ramirez of Spain and Alessia Mansuetto of Canada, respectively, while Kajal edged past Assem Tanatar of Kazakhstan in a closely contested bout, winning 4:1.