Reigning champion Nikhat Zareen started her campaign at the IBA Women's World Boxing Championships with a scintillating Referee Stops Bout (RSC) win over Anakhanim Ismayilova of Azerbaijan in the 50kg category opening round here at K D Jadhav Indoor Hall on Thursday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Commonwealth Games gold medallist showcased a clear dominance in the ring as the referee had to give a third standing count to Ismayilova in the second round of the bout.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
"I am happy that the first day started with India's win. I am very happy to win today's bout. Hopefully, I will continue my winning run in the upcoming matches," Nikhat said after the win.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Nikhat will next face the top seed Alegrian Roumaysa Boualam, who is the 2022 African champion, in the round of 32.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Last year, Nikhat won the gold in the 52kg weight category. But this year, she has shifted to 50kg, which replaced 52kg as an Olympic weight category.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Meanwhile, in the 52kg division, Sakshi outshined Colombia's Jose Maria Martinez by a unanimous decision of 5-0 in the preliminary round.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Last year, Nikhat won the gold in the 52kg weight category. But this year, she has shifted to 50kg, which replaced 52kg as an Olympic weight category.<\/p>\r\n\r\n