India's Ambekar Meetei scripts history with boxing gold at Dakar Youth Olympics
Indian boxer Lairenlakpam Ambekar Meetei won the gold medal in the men's 50kg category at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics. This victory marks a historic milestone for Indian boxing, ending a 16-year wait for a Youth Olympic gold.
Why it matters
This achievement represents a significant development in India's growing presence in international amateur sports.
India's Lairenlakpam Ambekar Meetei scripted history at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, striking gold in the men's 50kg boxing event after edging past Ireland's Kristian Jubani in a closely fought final.The Indian boxer secured a 3-2 victory on the judges' scorecards to claim the top prize. In a tightly contested bout, three judges favoured Ambekar Meetei, while the remaining two awarded their verdict to his Irish opponent.The gold medal capped an impressive campaign for the Manipuri boxer, who had earlier booked his place in the final with a commanding performance in the semifinals.Ambekar Meetei defeated Colombia's Izzon Jeffrey Galea Arevalo 5-0 to secure a unanimous points victory and move into the gold medal…
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