State boxers to miss cash rewards as International boxers skip Noida world cup

The absence of international competitors at the World Boxing Cup Finals 2025 in Noida is set to cost Haryana’s boxers dearly, with many now ineligible for state cash rewards despite registering wins. Twenty Indian boxers are competing in the event, being held from November 16 to 20 at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex, most of whom are from Haryana.

Foreign boxers, acting on advisories issued over NCR pollution, have opted to skip the tournament. As a result, several bouts no longer meet the Haryana Sports Department’s criteria for cash rewards, which stipulate participation from a minimum of seven countries.

Due to the shortfall, winners will not receive state cash awards. They will also become ineligible for government-sponsored benefits including grading, employment, promotions and sports awards.

In the ongoing finals, only 44 international boxers are competing across 10 women’s weight categories, while 65 are participating in the men’s section. Five weight categories have only three to four competitors. While local boxing associations and coaches blame pollution—particularly the absence of teams from England and Australia—the Boxing Federation of India maintains that participation is based on international ranking.

“Only the top eight players are invited to such tournaments. There are no issues with the management or venue,” said Boxing Federation of India Secretary General, Chaudhary Pramod Kumar Yugal.

Several top Haryana boxers are contesting in nine categories, including Jasmine Lamboria (57 kg), Praveen Hooda (60 kg), Neeraj Phogat (65 kg), Sweety Bora (75 kg), Pooja Rani Bohra (80 kg), Hitesh Gulia (men’s 70 kg), Ankush Panghal (80 kg), Jugnu Ahlawat (85 kg) and Narendra Berwal (90 kg).

Boxing associations have repeatedly urged the state to amend its reward policy, arguing that ranking-based tournaments naturally limit foreign entries, making it unfair for athletes to be penalised.

Haryana Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam said the government is examining the submissions made by players and associations and “a decision will be taken soon.”