World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025: Jadumani Singh Mandengbam Outlasts Ellis Trowbridge to Secure Semi-Final Spot
–India’s Campaign in 75kg, 85kg, and 90+kg Ends as Nikhil Dubey, Jugnoo, and Narender Berwal Fall Short
São Paulo, April 1, 2025 – Indian boxer Jadumani Singh Mandengbam showcased remarkable grit to overcome Great Britain’s Ellis Trowbridge, advancing to the semi-finals of the 50kg category at the World Boxing Cup Brazil 2025 on Tuesday. However, India’s hopes in the 75kg, 85kg, and 90+kg divisions were dashed as Nikhil Dubey, Jugnoo, and Narender Berwal suffered defeats despite spirited efforts in their respective bouts.
Mandengbam’s Breakthrough Victory
Jadumani Singh Mandengbam faced a stern test against Trowbridge, the 2024 World Boxing Cup Finals silver medallist, who came out swinging with his trademark aggression. The Indian found himself on the defensive early, struggling to counter the Briton’s relentless pressure. Undeterred, Mandengbam weathered the storm, gradually finding his rhythm and landing precise punches to turn the tide. His resilience paid off with a hard-fought 3-2 split decision victory, securing his place in the semi-finals.
Mandengbam now sets his sights on Uzbekistan’s Asilbek Jalilov, a former Asian U-22 champion, in a high-stakes clash for a spot in the final.
India’s Struggles in Higher Weight Classes
While Mandengbam kept India’s medal hopes alive, the nation’s campaign in the heavier categories concluded on a disappointing note. In the 75kg division, Nikhil Dubey faced Brazil’s Kaue Belini and was outclassed, losing 5-0 in a unanimous decision to the home favorite. Jugnoo, competing in the 85kg category, put up a valiant fight against France’s Abdoulaye Traore but fell short in a 4-1 split decision.
Narender Berwal, an Asian Games bronze medallist, came agonizingly close to victory in the 90+kg bout against Kazakhstan’s Daniyal Saparbay. One judge scored the fight 30-27 in Berwal’s favor, but the final verdict went against him with a 3-2 split decision, ending his run in the tournament.
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Opening Day Setback for Chahar
The tournament’s opening day on Monday also saw India’s Lakshya Chahar bow out in the 80kg category. Facing Brazil’s Wanderley Pereira—a 2023 World Championship silver medallist and Paris 2024 Olympian—Chahar struggled to find answers, succumbing to a 5-0 unanimous decision defeat in the first round late Monday night.
Mandengbam Shines Amidst Challenges
Mandengbam’s win stood out as a beacon of hope for India. After absorbing Trowbridge’s early onslaught, he adapted his strategy, using footwork and well-timed counters to sway the judges. “It was tough initially, but I stayed calm and found my openings,” Mandengbam said post-match. His semi-final matchup against Jalilov promises to be a tactical battle, with the Uzbek known for his technical prowess.
Day 1 Results Recap
- 50kg: Jadumani Singh Mandengbam (India) def. Ellis Trowbridge (Great Britain) – 3-2 split decision
- 75kg: Kaue Belini (Brazil) def. Nikhil Dubey (India) – 5-0 unanimous decision
- 85kg: Abdoulaye Traore (France) def. Jugnoo (India) – 4-1 split decision
- 90+kg: Daniyal Saparbay (Kazakhstan) def. Narender Berwal (India) – 3-2 split decision
- 80kg: Wanderley Pereira (Brazil) def. Lakshya Chahar (India) – 5-0 unanimous decision
Upcoming Indian Bouts
India’s campaign continues on Wednesday with three boxers in action:
- 55kg: Manish Rathore vs. Yusulf Chothia (Australia) – Paris Olympian Chothia poses a formidable challenge.
- 70kg: Hitesh vs. Gabriele Guidi Rontani (Italy) – A test of Hitesh’s adaptability against the Italian’s flair.
- 65kg: Abhinash Jamwal vs. Denis Bril (Germany) – Jamwal aims to upset the German contender.
