Nikhat Zareen is an Indian boxer who is rapidly on the rise. A two-time world champion, Zareen is known for her aggression and unsparing attitude against the opponent.

At a young age Zareen was introduced to boxing by her father under whom she began her training. Later she was enrolled in the Sports Authority of Indian academy and in 2010 was declared the ‘golden best boxer’ at the Erode Nationals.

Nikhat Zareen set out for her boxing journey at junior levels and went on to win multiple medals. She bagged the sub-junior national title and followed it up with a gold medal at the Junior and Youth World Championships in 2011. She won another silver medal at the Youth World Championships in 2013

The pugilist soon began her transition into the senior circuit and achieved international glory at various occasions.

Zareen will now represent India at the Paris Olympics 2024. With so much of fire power in her, the 28-year-old is one of the best bets for the country to win the Olympic medal.

Ahead of her trip to Paris, let us have a look at top three performances of Nikhat Zareen.

2022 Istanbul World Championships

Zareen won her maiden worlds title in Istanbul, Turkey. She clinched the gold medal at the 2022 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in the 52 kg category. She defeated Thailand’s Jitpong Jutamas in the fly-weight final. With the win, Zareen became the fifth Indian women’s boxer to win a gold medal at the World Championships.

Also Read: 3 Best Performances Of Anshu Malik Ahead Of Paris Olympics 2024

2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games

Zareen bagged a gold medal for India in the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham after defeating Carly McNaul of Northern Ireland by 5-0 on in the 48–50 kg category (light flyweight category).

Also Read: 3 Best Performances Of Lakshya Sen Ahead Of Paris Olympics 2024

2023 New Delhi World Championships

The pugilist successfully defended her title. Nikhat won her second worlds title at 2023 IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in New Delhi. She crushed Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Tam by 5-0 unanimous decision in the 48-50 kg category.

Nishant Dev is an Indian amateur boxer who contests in the 71 kg category.  He has represented India on various international platforms.

Dev will etch his name in history when he takes to the ring at the Paris Olympics 2024. He will be the first male boxer to represent India at the Olympics. The 23-year-old has already booked a berth for Paris and is one of top bets for India to win a medal.

Inspired by his uncle, who was also a professional boxer, Dev also took up boxing at a young age. He had a backing from his father who ensured he received good training.

Dev got trained under coach Surender Chauhan at Karan stadium. Chauhan helped Dev with the basics and techniques of boxing.

With determination and perseverance, Nishant Dev has come a long way to find a place in the international boxing arena.

Also Read: 3 Best Performances Of Lovlina Borgohain Ahead Of Paris Olympics 2024

Achievements of Nishant Dev

•         Paris 2024 Olympics Qualification: Nishant Dev qualified for Paris 2024 Olympics by defeating Vasile Cebotari in the quarter-final of the 2nd World Olympic Qualifier.
•         Bronze Medal- 2023 IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships: Dev won a bronze medal in the 71 kg category at the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. With this he became the first Indian male boxer to qualify for the Olympics.
•         Gold Medal- 6th Elite Men’s National Boxing Championship: The pugilist clinched gold in the 6th edition of the Elite Men’s National Boxing Championship in 2023.
•         Gold Medal- 5th Elite Men’s National Boxing Championship: The boxer from Haryana won a gold medal at 5th edition of Elite men’s national boxing championship in 2021.
•         Gold Medal- Grand Slam Asian Boxing Championship: Dev bagged a gold medal at the Grand Slam Asian boxing championship in India in 2019.
•         Silver Medal- 4th Elite Men’s National Boxing Championship: Bagged a silver medal at the fourth elite men’s national boxing championship in 2019.
•         Gold Medal- 2nd Khelo India Youth Games: The young boxer clinched the gold medal at the second Khelo India youth games in 2019.

Also Read: Boxing: A closer look at the sweet science

Net Worth of Nishant Dev

Currently, Nishant Dev’s worth is estimated at US $ 13.7. It is a sharp rise from 2020 when his net worth was US $ 8.2 million. The figure is expected to grow tremendously in the near future depending on his success at the Paris Olympics 2024 and other international bouts. 

Boxing history is about to be made with the highly anticipated fight between legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson and social media star turned-boxer Jake Paul. This isn’t just a fight; it’s a clash of generations, a cultural phenomenon, and a guaranteed night of entertainment.

Mark Your Calendars

The fight is set for Saturday, July 20th, 2024. It will take place at the massive AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with a capacity to hold a roaring crowd of 80,000. Sanctioned as a professional fight in Texas, this won’t be an exhibition bout. It’s eight rounds of serious competition, with each round lasting two minutes. Fighters will go bareheaded and wear gloves no heavier than 14 ounces. Knockouts are allowed, and the winner will be officially reflected in both boxers’ records.

A Netflix First

Witness this historic fight from the comfort of your couch! This is Netflix’s first venture into live sports streaming, and the Tyson vs. Paul fight will be available exclusively on the platform worldwide. No need for additional pay-per-view fees; just use your existing Netflix subscription.

Also Read: Boxing: A closer look at the sweet science

While Paul, the young social media star, may seem like the underdog, he’s actively improving his boxing record. He’s defeated YouTubers and even some professional fighters. On the other hand, though past his prime, Tyson’s knockout power remains a force to be reckoned with. This unpredictable matchup throws out the traditional underdog narrative, making the fight even more exciting. Expect more than just a boxing match. Netflix plans to deliver an electrifying experience. Celebrity appearances, behind-the-scenes access, and high-octane energy will keep viewers glued to their screens.

Also Read: Virginia Boxing Rules: Understanding Fouls, Referee Duties, and Point Deductions

A Turning Point

This fight represents a clash of eras. Tyson embodies the raw power and legacy of old-school boxing. Paul represents the new wave of social media influencers stepping into the ring. It’s a battle between experience and youthful ambition, guaranteed to be a spectacle.

More Than Just a Fight

This event transcends the boundaries of a typical boxing match. It’s a cultural event that showcases a changing landscape in the world of pugilism. Whether you’re a die-hard boxing fan or simply curious about the spectacle, tune in to Netflix on July 20th and witness history unfold.

It’s a historic showdown between a boxing legend (Tyson) and a social media star (Paul), representing a changing of the guard. Despite Tyson’s age, his power remains dangerous, making the outcome uncertain. This fight transcends boxing, showcasing a new wave of influencers entering the sport. Witness history unfolds on Netflix on July 20th, with an electrifying experience beyond just the fight itself.

Boxing, like any other sport, has a set of rules and regulations to ensure fair play and athlete safety. In Virginia, specific guidelines govern boxing contests, outlining fouls, the duties of referees, and the deduction of points for rule violations.

In Virginia, various actions by a boxer during a boxing contest are considered fouls. These include hitting below the navel or behind the ear, striking an opponent who is down, holding or clinching deliberately, wrestling, kicking, butting with the head, using abusive language, or engaging in unsportsmanlike conduct.

Referees play a crucial role in enforcing the rules of the contest and preventing unfair practices that may lead to injuries. They are tasked with warning boxers who commit fouls during a match and ensuring that the bout proceeds according to regulations.

Point Deductions:
Boxers who commit fouls may face point deductions by the referee. The severity of the foul and its impact on the opponent determine the number of points deducted. Referees deduct points from the boxer’s score for the round in which the foul occurred, with the deduction communicated to judges and both boxers promptly.

Handling Foul-Induced Injuries:
If a foul occurs, and the referee determines that it affects the fouled boxer’s ability to continue, they may suspend the contest for up to five minutes to allow the injured boxer to recover. The referee assesses the severity of the injury and decides on the appropriate course of action, including disqualification or continuation of the bout.

Intentional fouls carry significant penalties. A boxer causing an injury severe enough to terminate the bout immediately loses by disqualification. Point deductions for intentional fouls are mandatory, and the injured boxer may win by technical decision or result in a technical draw based on scorecard assessment.

Accidental fouls resulting in severe injuries prompt the referee to stop the bout immediately. Depending on the number of completed rounds and the severity of the injury, the contest may result in a no decision, a technical decision, or a technical draw.

If a boxer is hit with an accidental low blow, they must rise by the count of 10 and continue within a reasonable timeframe. Failure to do so may result in losing the bout.

Boxing, often dubbed the “sweet science,” is a sport deeply ingrained in human history, dating back to ancient times. From its origins as a basic form of combat to its modern-day incarnation as a regulated sport, boxing has evolved over centuries, captivating audiences with its grace, power, and strategy.

The Oldest Sport:
Boxing’s roots trace back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of fist-fighting dating as far back as the 3rd millennium BC. The sport gained prominence in 688 BC when it was included in the ancient Olympic Games, marking its place as one of the world’s oldest sports.

Evolution of Rules:
Over the years, boxing has seen various sets of rules and regulations. From Broughton’s rules in 1743 to the Marquess of Queensbury Rules in 1867, the sport has undergone numerous transformations to ensure fair competition and safety for the athletes.

Object of the Game:
At its core, boxing is about skillfully landing punches while avoiding being hit. While the goal may seem straightforward—to concuss the opponent—it is often described more tactfully as hitting without being hit, showcasing the strategic aspect of the sport.

Players & Equipment:
Boxers compete in a ring, typically measuring 16-25 feet along each side. The ring features corner posts 5 feet above the ground, creating a controlled environment for the bouts. Boxers wear gloves, ranging from 12oz to 16oz, designed to protect both the hand and the opponent.

Scoring:
Professional bouts are scored by ringside judges based on each round’s outcome. Judges determine the winner based on their assessment of each boxer’s performance. If a fight goes the distance, the decision is unanimous, split, or declared a draw. Knockouts, retirements, or disqualifications also determine the winner.

Winning the Game:
Victory in boxing can be achieved through knockout, technical knockout, or a decision by the judges. Knockouts occur when a boxer is unable to continue after being knocked down. Technical knockouts are declared when a boxer cannot continue due to injury or unwillingness. Judges’ decisions are based on scoring if the fight goes the distance.

Rules of Boxing:
Professional bouts consist of 12 three-minute rounds with one-minute rest intervals. Punching with a clenched fist is the only method of attack allowed. Strikes below the belt or to the back of the head are prohibited. Boxers cannot use the ropes for leverage or strike an opponent when they are down.

Boxing is not just a sport but a testament to human skill, resilience, and sportsmanship. As athletes step into the ring, they showcase the culmination of centuries of tradition and the enduring spirit of competition.

In his first title defense, Takuma Inoue, the reigning WBA bantamweight champion, showcased his dominance with a remarkable ninth-round knockout victory via a body shot against former titleholder Jerwin Ancajas. Meanwhile, on the same card, Junto Nakatani made waves by claiming the WBC bantamweight title with a sixth-round stoppage of Alexandro Santiago, thereby becoming a three-weight world champion.

Despite being relatively new to the bantamweight division, Nakatani’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, elevating him to the top spot in the rankings. The question now arises: will the Japanese sensation be able to lure his fellow champions into unification bouts, or will he opt to climb up in weight once again?

The bantamweight division is teeming with talent, and Nakatani’s meteoric rise has undoubtedly added an intriguing dynamic. With an undefeated record of 27-0, including 20 knockouts, Nakatani’s prowess in the ring is unquestionable. His recent victory over Santiago further solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with in the boxing world.

Nakatani’s attributes are strikingly impressive – he possesses exceptional speed, formidable power, and an astute ring intelligence. His ability to gauge distance effectively not only makes him a potent offensive threat but also renders him elusive and difficult to hit. With just one bout at bantamweight under his belt, Nakatani has already demonstrated a level of superiority that sets him apart from his competitors at 118 pounds.

Reflecting on Nakatani’s career, it’s evident that his trajectory is one of continuous improvement and success. His notable victories over esteemed opponents such as Milan Melindo, Francisco Rodriguez Jr., Andrew Moloney, and Argi Cortes underscore his caliber as a top-tier boxer.

As Nakatani’s star continues to rise, the boxing world eagerly awaits to see if he can maintain his dominance and solidify his status as one of the pound-for-pound greats.

YouTuber Jake Paul has been making headlines in the boxing world yet again, this time with a potential clash against Neeraj Goyat, adding an extra layer of drama to his upcoming fight in Puerto Rico on March 2. Goyat, who was once rumored to face Paul, decided to stir up some excitement by confronting “The Problem Child” in his own territory.

Touching down in Puerto Rico, where Paul’s upcoming fight will take place, Goyat positioned himself as the co-main event under Amanda Serrano vs. Nina Meinke for the unified featherweight title. Taking to Instagram, Goyat directly challenged Paul, asking, “I am a man of my word, I’m in Puerto Rico. Where are you, Jake Paul?”

In response, Paul reportedly DM’d Goyat an address, prompting Goyat to show up at the gym with cameras rolling. The confrontation escalated quickly, with both fighters exchanging taunts and shoving each other in front of the cameras. The video of the encounter garnered significant attention, hinting at the potential for a lucrative showdown between the two.

Speculation about a fight between Paul and Goyat began in December 2023 when Goyat issued a challenge to Paul, emphasizing the opportunity to showcase Indian boxing prowess on a global stage. Paul, never one to back down from a challenge, responded affirmatively, indicating his willingness to fight Goyat.

While nothing has been confirmed yet, discussions have reportedly begun for a potential matchup between Paul and Goyat. Paul, fresh off a victory against Andre August, faces Ryan Bourland in his upcoming fight. However, the prospect of a showdown with Goyat has captured the interest of fans and pundits alike, with Paul acknowledging Goyat’s presence in the boxing landscape and teasing the possibility of a future clash.

As for Neeraj Goyat, he boasts an impressive resume in the boxing world, being the first Indian to make the WBC rankings and having notable victories throughout his career, including a win over former WBA “regular” featherweight champion Can Xu. Despite facing setbacks, such as a loss to Jose Zepeda, Goyat remains a formidable opponent with a record of 18-4-2, making him a compelling potential adversary for Jake Paul.