Indian boxer Jadumani Singh Mandengbam made a commanding start to his Commonwealth Games 2026 campaign by defeating Scotland’s Aaron Cullen in the men’s 55kg boxing event. The 22-year-old secured a convincing 5-0 unanimous decision to progress to the pre-quarterfinals, where he is set for a much-anticipated bout against Pakistan’s Sumama Rehman.
Competing in front of a home crowd supporting Cullen at Glasgow’s SEC Arena, Jadumani displayed remarkable composure and technical superiority from the opening bell, silencing the local supporters with an impressive all-round performance.
Perfect Opening Performance
Jadumani wasted no time asserting his dominance. He earned perfect 10s from all five judges in the opening round and repeated the feat in the second round, consistently landing cleaner punches while maintaining excellent ring control.
Despite Cullen enjoying the backing of the Scottish crowd, the Indian boxer remained focused and dictated the pace throughout the contest. His aggressive combinations, sharp footwork, and defensive discipline ensured there was little doubt about the outcome, with all five judges awarding him the victory.
India vs Pakistan Clash Awaits
The victory sets up one of the most anticipated contests of the boxing competition as Jadumani prepares to face Pakistan’s Sumama Rehman in the pre-quarterfinals.
Rehman entered the last-16 stage after receiving a bye in the opening round. The winner of the India-Pakistan encounter will book a place in the quarterfinals, making Sunday’s bout one of the standout fixtures of the Commonwealth Games boxing tournament.
Move to 55kg Paying Rich Dividends
Jadumani’s impressive performance reflects the success of his decision to move from the 50kg category to the 55kg division this season.
Last year, the Manipur boxer claimed a silver medal at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Noida, and the transition to a higher weight class has allowed him to compete without the physical strain of significant weight reduction. The change has improved both his confidence and in-ring performance, making him a stronger contender on the international stage.
Strong Indian Boxing Contingent
India has fielded a 14-member boxing team at the Commonwealth Games 2026, comprising seven male and seven female boxers.
Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain has already secured at least a bronze medal after receiving a direct entry into the semifinals. Under Commonwealth Games boxing rules, both losing semifinalists receive bronze medals. Meanwhile, India’s campaign continues with several other boxers scheduled to compete in the coming days.
Positive Start to India’s Medal Quest
Jadumani’s convincing victory adds further momentum to India’s Commonwealth Games campaign. Earlier, para powerlifter Jhandu Kumar opened India’s medal tally by winning a bronze medal, while athletes across boxing, gymnastics, and lawn bowls continue their pursuit of podium finishes.
As attention now shifts to the upcoming India-Pakistan showdown, boxing fans will be eagerly watching whether Jadumani Singh can maintain his impressive form and move one step closer to a Commonwealth Games medal. A victory over Sumama Rehman would secure him a place in the quarterfinals and further strengthen India’s hopes in the boxing competition.
