Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain is one win away from Asian Games gold after storming into the women’s 75kg boxing final with a stunning comeback victory over Kazakhstan’s Natalya Bogdanova in the semifinal.
The Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist dropped the opening round but switched gears in the second and third to claim a 3-2 split-decision win, becoming the first Indian woman boxer to reach back-to-back Asian Games finals.
Lovlina Borgohain’s comeback win over Bogdanova
Bogdanova, the reigning 70kg world champion, started strongly and took the opening round. But Lovlina found her rhythm, landing her jabs and combinations to sway two of the five judges’ cards in the decisive rounds.
The 3-2 split decision sparked celebrations in the Indian camp as Lovlina assured herself of at least a silver medal.
Back-to-back finals history
Lovlina is the first Indian woman boxer to reach consecutive Asian Games finals. She won silver in the women’s 75kg category at the previous edition of the Games and will now look to go one better.
Her journey from Tokyo Olympic bronze to Asian Games finals has made her one of the faces of Indian boxing.
One win from gold
The women’s 75kg final will see Lovlina Borgohain fight for the ultimate prize. A gold would cap a remarkable Asian Games for Indian boxing and add to the country’s growing medal tally.
Meanwhile, in other sports action, rain washed out the Asian Games cricket quarter-finals, France edged Belgium in the Nations League, and the Broncos beat the Rams in an NFL thriller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Lovlina Borgohain reached an Asian Games boxing final before?
Yes. She is the first Indian woman boxer to reach back-to-back Asian Games finals — she won the silver medal in the women's 75kg category at the previous edition of the Games.
What is Lovlina Borgohain's Olympic record?
Lovlina Borgohain is an Olympic medallist who won bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, making her one of India's most decorated boxers.
When is the women's 75kg boxing final at the Asian Games 2026?
The final is part of the boxing finals programme at the Asian Games 2026, where Lovlina will fight for the gold medal.
Which country does Natalya Bogdanova represent?
Natalya Bogdanova represents Kazakhstan and is the reigning 70kg world champion.
