GLASGOW — Indian pugilist Jadumani Singh Mandengbam delivered a boxing masterclass on Sunday night, storming into the men's 55kg quarterfinals at the Commonwealth Games 2026 after defeating Pakistan's Sumama Rehman by a 5-0 unanimous decision.
In a high-intensity clash carrying all the historic fervor of an India-Pakistan sporting encounter, the 22-year-old from Manipur remained in total command from the opening bell. Despite Rehman entering the ring fresh off a first-round bye, he found no answers to Jadumani’s sharp jabs, tactical distance control, and fluid footwork.
Dominance in the Ring
Having recently stepped up to the 55kg weight class to avoid severe weight cuts, Jadumani looked energetic and compositionally strong throughout the three rounds. All five judges awarded the bout to the Indian fighter, signaling a complete sweep across the scorecards.
The win marks Jadumani's second consecutive dominant display in Glasgow. He had previously outclassed home favorite Aaron Cullen of Scotland in the Round of 32 by identical 30-27 scorelines across the board.
Speaking after his victory, an elated Jadumani dedicated the triumph to the country's military heroes, as the match coincided with India's Kargil Vijay Diwas. He expressed confidence in his upgraded weight division and vowed to press forward for a gold medal when he returns to the ring for his quarterfinal match on Tuesday.
Strong Showing for Indian Contingent
Jadumani’s progress topped off a memorable day for Team India at the 2026 Games. In weightlifting, star lifter Mirabai Chanu clinched gold in the women's 48kg event with a combined lift of 190kg, while Rishikanta Singh secured a silver medal in the men's 60kg division.
In the women’s boxing ring, Preeti Pawar also made headlines by stopping her opponent via a second-round Referee Stops Contest (RSC) to march into the 54kg quarterfinals.
While the lawn bowls and 3x3 wheelchair basketball teams suffered minor setbacks, India’s boxing contingent continues to set a relentless pace in Glasgow, keeping multiple medal opportunities well within reach.
