Jadumani Singh booked his place in the quarterfinals of the Commonwealth Games boxing competition on Sunday with a dominant 5-0 unanimous decision victory over Pakistan's Sumama Rehman in a high-profile clash.
The Army boxer delivered a composed performance, relying on his superior technique, speed and ringcraft to outclass his opponent from the opening bell. The bout unfolded in a charged atmosphere at the SEC Centre, with loud chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and "India, India" echoing through the arena.
Jadumani, who had dedicated his previous victory to the heroes of the Kargil War on Kargil Vijay Diwas, continued his impressive run with another commanding display to secure a place in the last eight.
Boxer dedicates win to Kargil war heroes
Jadumani, who had dedicated his victory to the heroes of the Kargil War on Kargil Vijay Diwas, reiterated his ambition after another commanding performance.
"I want to dedicate this win to Kargil heroes. I want to defeat everyone and get gold for India," he said.
After a watchful opening round, Jadumani quickly figured out his opponent's rhythm and took complete control of the contest.
He repeatedly found the target with sharp hooks and straight punches, forcing the referee to give a standing count to Rehman in the second round after a stinging right hand.
Who is Manipur's Jadumani?
Jadumani Singh Mandengbam's journey to the boxing ring began on the football field. Like many youngsters in India, the young boxer from Manipur grew up playing football and quickly developed a passion for the sport. However, his family wanted him to prioritise academics over sports, often discouraging him from spending time on the field.
Despite the initial resistance, Jadumani continued playing football, sometimes sneaking out to join his friends. His sporting journey took a decisive turn when his uncle introduced him to boxing — a move that would eventually shape his career. Years later, when ethnic violence disrupted life in Manipur, his family stood firmly behind him, ensuring that his boxing training continued despite the turmoil.
Reflecting on his early years in an exclusive conversation with Firstpost after winning silver at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Greater Noida, Jadumani told FirstPost: "I didn’t know much about boxing at an early age. Used to love playing football as a kid, and I was quite good at it as well. Everyone used to like me as a player. My family didn’t support it initially, insisting I focus on my studies rather than play sports. I used to sneak out to play football regardless."
He added: "My uncle introduced me to boxing. And although it wasn’t my first love, I’m fully committed to boxing now that I have decided to pursue a career in it."
Shift from 50kg to 55 kg
When Jadumani Singh decided to move from the 50kg to the 55kg weight category, many questioned whether the transition would work. The Manipuri boxer, who is shorter than several of his rivals in the division, was told he would struggle against physically bigger opponents. Some even felt the move could halt the progress he had made after winning silver in the men's 50kg at the 2025 World Boxing Cup Finals.
The 23-year-old from Iroishemba, Manipur, ignored the criticism and backed his own abilities. His decision soon paid dividends. Jadumani went on to win the national title in the 55kg category, was named the tournament's Best Boxer, and earned selection in India's squads for both the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.
"People kept saying I wouldn’t be able to do well in 55kg because of my height. At times, it affected me mentally, but deep down I believed I could succeed," Jadumani said ahead of his Commonwealth Games campaign.
The switch was motivated by his long-term goal of winning an Olympic medal. With the 51kg category no longer part of the Los Angeles Olympics programme, Jadumani realised he needed to establish himself in a higher weight class.
Before making the move, he sought advice from former world champion L. Sarita Devi, who has remained one of his biggest mentors even after he joined the Army Sports Institute (ASI) in Pune.
