5 Indian Boxers Who Dominated the Ring for Years

India has consistently produced exceptional boxers who have excelled both domestically and internationally.
Their relentless dedication and remarkable performances have not only earned them international acclaim but also inspired countless aspiring athletes across the nation.
Speaking about sports’ presence in the country, boxing’s popularity is surging, highlighted by a historic performance at the 2025 World Boxing Championships, where the women’s team, led by gold medalist Jaismine Lamboria, delivered the country’s best-ever campaign.
This success, built on a strong quarterfinal surge with five boxers and rising talents like Sumit Kundu and Neeraj Phogat, reflects the sport’s growing momentum, with professional promoters also noting its rapidly expanding market and fanbase.
With recent successes at major tournaments, Indian boxing is experiencing a surge in momentum and recognition.
Here are five Indian Boxers, both legendary and rising stars, who have left an indelible mark on the world of boxing.

1. Vijender Singh

Vijender Singh is a celebrated Indian boxer who gained widespread recognition after winning a bronze medal in the middleweight category at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
This historic achievement marked the first Olympic boxing medal for India. Prior to that, he had competed in the 2004 Athens Olympics as a welterweight but did not win a medal.
Vijender is known for his tactical skill, powerful punches, and excellent footwork in the ring. As an amateur boxer, he also earned medals in various major international events, including gold at the 2010 Asian Games and silver and bronze medals at the Commonwealth Games.
He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2010, one of India’s highest civilian honors. Vijender turned professional in October 2015, signing with Queensberry Promotions in the UK.
He started his pro career strongly, winning his first several fights mostly by knockout, and secured the WBO Asia Pacific super middleweight title in 2016.
As of recent records, Vijender’s professional record stands close to 13 wins and 1 loss. He remains an important figure in Indian boxing, contributing significantly to the sport’s surge in popularity in India since his Olympic success.

2. Mary Kom

Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, popularly known as Mary Kom, is a legendary figure in Indian boxing.
She is the only woman to have won the World Amateur Boxing Championship six times and the first female boxer to have won a medal in all of the first seven AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships, accumulating a total of eight World Championship medals.
Mary Kom’s remarkable journey from a small village in Manipur to becoming a global boxing icon is truly inspirational. Her physically demanding tenacity and fighting spirit have earned her the nickname “Magnificent Mary,” and she remains an influential figure in women’s boxing worldwide.
She is also the first Indian woman boxer to win a gold medal at the Asian Games, achieving this historic feat in 2014.
Additionally, Mary Kom won the gold medal in the women’s light flyweight category at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
She is widely regarded as India’s greatest female boxer and has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for her outstanding contribution to sport.

3. Vikas Krishan Yadav

Vikas Krishan Yadav has been a key figure in Indian boxing for over a decade. He burst onto the international scene by winning a gold medal in the lightweight category at the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou, followed by a bronze medal at the 2011 World Amateur Boxing Championships.
Vikas further established his reputation with a bronze medal at the 2014 Asian Games and a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the middleweight (75 kg) division.
Known for his strong defensive skills and tactical intelligence, he has represented India at three Olympic Games in 2012, 2016, and 2020. At the 2012 London Olympics, he lost controversially to Errol Spence Jr., and in 2016, he reached the quarterfinals in Rio.
Vikas transitioned briefly to professional boxing in 2019, compiling an undefeated record before putting his pro career on hold to aim for Olympic success once again.
His dedication to the sport and contributions to Indian boxing remain highly respected, inspiring many young athletes across the country.

4. Shiva Thapa

Shiva Thapa remains one of India’s most prominent and consistent boxers on the international stage.
He made history as the youngest Indian boxer to qualify for the Olympics at just 18 years old, representing India in the bantamweight (56 kg) category at the 2012 London Games.
Known for his agility, quick footwork, and technical skill, Thapa has set a national record by winning six consecutive medals at the Asian Boxing Championships, including a gold medal in 2013, silver medals in 2017 and 2021, and multiple bronze medals.
He also won a bronze medal at the 2015 AIBA World Boxing Championships, becoming the third Indian male boxer to achieve this feat.
As of 2024-2025, Thapa continues to compete actively and remains a key figure in Indian boxing, regularly medaling in major tournaments.
His enduring passion for the sport and commitment to excellence make him a true role model for aspiring boxers across the nation.

5. Amit Panghal

Amit Panghal stands out as one of India’s most accomplished and dynamic boxers, despite being relatively younger than some of his peers.
He made history by becoming the first Indian male boxer to win a silver medal at the 2019 World Championships, and he also claimed gold at the 2018 Asian Games and the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Known for his lightning speed, sharp combinations, and tactical brilliance, Panghal has consistently proven himself as a formidable competitor in the flyweight category.
His meteoric rise was highlighted by reaching the world’s No. 1 ranking and earning the prestigious Arjuna Award for his contributions to Indian boxing.
Recently, in February 2025, Panghal turned professional, signing with a US-based management company and marking a new chapter in his career after representing India at the Paris Olympics.
Amit Panghal’s journey continues to inspire, and his impact on Indian boxing remains significant.

These five boxers have fought hard battles, both inside and outside the ring, to reach where they are today.
These Indian athletes may not be as popular as other combat sports stars like Indian WWE wrestlers, but their fanbase is growing rapidly.
They have faced challenges head-on and have emerged victorious, setting an example for many young Indians who aspire to take up boxing.
Their stories are not just about winning medals but about the fighting spirit and perseverance that define the true essence of a champion.