Preeti Pawar’s Spectacular Comeback at the World Boxing Cup Finals

The Story of a Return

Preeti Pawar, an Indian boxer competing in the women’s 54 kg category, made a high-profile return to the international ring at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Greater Noida. 

She defeated Uzbekistan’s former youth champion Nigina Uktamova by a unanimous 5-0 decision in the quarter-finals, thereby securing a medal and signalling that she is back and stronger. 

What Changed: New Strengths in Her Game

Improved stamina and endurance: After being diagnosed with Hepatitis A around the time of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Preeti had been away from top-level competition.
Her coach reported she increased her sparring rounds from 3 to 5 and added much more conditioning.
Sharpened counter-attacks and defence: While Preeti has been known for her attacking style, her recent training has focused on defence and countering, giving her a more complete skill-set.
Footwork and movement: She worked especially on sideways movement and creating angles — key to opening gaps in her opponent’s defence.

The Match at a Glance

Opponent: Nigina Uktamova (Uzbekistan)
Result: 5-0 in favour of Preeti Pawar.
Location: Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex, Greater Noida, 2025. 

Significance: First international bout in 15 months for Preeti after her illness and time away.

Why Her Win Matters

Mental resilience: Recovering from an illness and coming back to win at this level signals strong mental fortitude.
Technique evolution: Her game is no longer reliant solely on attack but also on smart defence and counters — which raises her potential for tougher opponents ahead.
Inspiration for Indian boxing: Her return adds to the momentum for India in this tournament. Multiple Indian boxers, including Minakshi Hooda, also progressed today.

What’s Next for Preeti

She now has a semifinal match coming up (and possibly a final) which will test her against the best in the world.
The key focus for her going forward will be maintaining her improved defensive game while still leveraging her attacking instincts.
With the World Boxing Cup offering ranking points, performing well here sets her up for major competitions to come.