Boxing, Olympics 2024: Nikhat, Lovlina shoulder hopes but pressure on male boxers mounts

As we count down to the 2024 Olympic Games, the top competitors will be expected to continue to perform at the highest level, while others will hope to punch above their weight and reach for a spot on the podium. In the build up to the mega event in Paris, Scroll looks at the eight different Olympic disciplines where Indians have returned with a medal.

The Indian boxing contingent’s build-up to the the Paris Olympics has been a challenging one. While the potential for success remains high and new talents have emerged, not everything has gone smoothly.

In this Olympic cycle, Nikhat Zareen has risen as the new face of Indian boxing. From being a challenger before the Tokyo Olympics, the boxer from Telangana has now taken over the mantle from Mary Kom.

Several younger female boxers, such as Nitu Ghanghas, Preeti Pawar, Parveen, and Jasmine Lamboria have also found success, showcasing the depth of talent in the women’s category.

Eventually, four female boxers have earned the opportunity to represent India in Paris – two-time World Champion Zareen, Tokyo bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain, along with young talents Lamboria and Pawar.

Conversely, the results in men’s boxing have been sporadic and inconsistent, and India will field only two male pugilists in Paris. Amit...

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