Indian Boxer Laireenlakpam Mitei Advances to Finals at Youth Olympics in Dakar

Dakar, November 11 (Daily Kiran) : Indian boxer Laireenlakpam Ambedkar Mitei has made his mark by reaching the finals of the men’s 50-kilogram boxing competition at the ongoing 2026 Summer Youth Olympics in Dakar, Senegal. In a thrilling semifinal match on Wednesday, Mitei triumphed over Colombia’s Izon Jeffrey Galia Arevalo with a decisive 5-0 victory.

Competing from the red corner, Mitei showcased an impressive performance, dominating the bout from start to finish. The judges awarded him scores of 28-27, 28-27, 28-27, 29-26, and 28-27, reflecting his clear superiority in the ring.

In the finals, Mitei will face Ireland’s Christian Jubani, who secured his place by defeating Mexico’s Alan Jesus Ocampo Cano, also by a score of 5-0, in the other semifinal. Prior to reaching the semifinals, Mitei had already guaranteed a medal for India by defeating Namibia’s Abraham Kalenga in the first round via a ‘Referee Stops Contest’ (RSC) in just 1 minute and 57 seconds. He also won his quarterfinal match against Senegal’s Faye Sheikh Ibrahima Fall with another 5-0 score.

This marks India’s second medal in the boxing events at the Youth Olympics. Earlier, Gunjan secured a spot in the semifinals of the women’s 48-kilogram category after defeating Mexico’s Atena Sofia Juarez Calero with a 5-0 score, ensuring a medal for the country. Gunjan will face Great Britain’s Lily Bassett in her semifinal match. Even if she does not advance, she will return home with a bronze medal.

So far, India has won medals in wrestling and swimming at the 2026 Summer Youth Olympics. As of the morning session on November 11, the country’s total medal count stands at eight, which includes three silver and five bronze medals.