Shillong, May 1: The State Boxing Championship 2025–26 concluded on a high note at Mawlai Mawroh, with Meghalaya’s emerging boxing talents showcasing remarkable skill, determination and promise for the future.
The four-day tournament was organised by the Meghalaya Boxing Association with support from the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs. A total of 105 boxers from eight districts and various clubs competed across junior (15–16 years) and youth (17–18 years) categories, divided by weight classes in line with national and international standards.
Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang attended the closing ceremony as chief guest, while Lakshay Sharma of Delhi Public School and the SHAIL Group was the special guest.
Top Honours
Four standout pugilists were awarded Best Boxer titles:
Junior Girls: Evangellyne Sohbar (Ri-Bhoi)
Junior Boys: Damonlang Marbaniang (Green Heart Boxing Club)
Youth Girls: Ekyrpangmeki Sohiong (Ri-Bhoi)
Youth Boys: Amethyst Synnah (West Jaintia Hills)
The Emerging Boxer of the Championship award went to Casbe K Marak of West Garo Hills.
In his address, Marbaniang encouraged athletes to maintain both physical fitness and mental resilience, pointing to Meghalaya’s boxing icon Torak Kharpran as an inspiration. Kharpran has not only achieved success at national and international levels but now serves as a coach for India’s senior boxing team.
Thrilling Finals
The atmosphere around the ring was electric, especially during the youth men’s finals. Several bouts ended via RSC (Referee Stopped Contest), indicating dominant performances.
Amethyst Synnah secured victory in the 48–50 kg final after the referee stopped the contest in the second round against Samuel Sohphoh.
Rang-i-man Lamin defeated Casbe K Marak in the 65–70 kg category, also via RSC.
Some matches, however, went the distance:
Russell Fabian Nongkhlaw clinched the 45–48 kg title via split decision.
Ekyrpangmeki Sohiong won her 48–51 kg youth women final by unanimous decision after a closely fought bout.
Strong Future Ahead
Despite their young age, the participants demonstrated high levels of technical ability and discipline, reflecting the growing strength of grassroots boxing in the state. Officials noted that 45 senior boxers are already training for the upcoming National Games, while several new talents from this championship could emerge as future stars by 2027.
The championship not only highlighted individual excellence but also underscored the vital role of coaches, district associations and local clubs in nurturing Meghalaya’s next generation of boxers.
