World No. 1 Minakshi, Veteran Deepak Lead India's World Boxing Cup Campaign

India will head into the World Boxing Cup 2026 (Stage 2) in Guiyang, China , with confidence, momentum and growing expectations as World No. 1 Minakshi and experienced campaigner Deepak prepare to lead the country's challenge from June 15 to 21 .

The tournament arrives at a crucial point in the season, offering valuable ranking points and another opportunity for Indian boxers to reinforce the nation's rapidly rising status in world boxing. Although the squad largely consists of boxers who finished as runners-up in the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games selection trials, it remains packed with talent, depth and potential.

Indian boxing has enjoyed a remarkable run in recent international competitions, consistently collecting medals across World Boxing Cup stages and producing impressive performances at major global events. Those results have helped India emerge as one of the sport's fastest-growing powers. The country currently ranks third in the world in terms of overall top-10 ranked athletes, while Indian women occupy an especially strong position, leading the world in the number of boxers placed inside the top three rankings .

The women's team will be spearheaded by Minakshi (51kg) , whose rise to the top of the world rankings has become a symbol of India's growing dominance in the sport. She will be joined by Poonam (54kg), Prachi (57kg), Mahi Lama (60kg), Saneh (65kg), Gitimoni G (70kg), Sanamacha C (75kg), Naina (80kg) and Alfiya Tarannum Akram Khan Pathan (+80kg).

In the men's section, Deepak (70kg) brings valuable international experience and leadership to a promising group that includes Rishi S (50kg), Nikhil (55kg), Anmol (60kg), Abhinash Jamwal (65kg), Malsawmtluanga (80kg), Jugnoo (85kg), Harsh Choudhary (90kg) and Sawan G (+90kg).

The squad has undergone intensive preparations at the national camp , focusing on technical precision, fitness and tactical execution. With a healthy mix of established names and emerging talent, India will be aiming not only for medals but also to continue building momentum ahead of an important international season.

As the action shifts to China, Indian boxing once again carries the weight of expectation, determined to prove that its recent success is no longer a surprise but the mark of a nation firmly established among the world's elite boxing powers .