The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, July 12: The inaugural Pro Boxing League (PBL) 2026, organised by the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF), concluded with a spectacular Grand Finale at Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, marking a historic milestone in the evolution of Indian boxing. The five-day championship, held from 6–10 July, witnessed thrilling contests, enthusiastic spectators, distinguished dignitaries and outstanding performances by some of India’s finest boxers.
The championship brought together elite talent from across the country and introduced a professional league format designed to provide Indian boxers with greater exposure, competitive opportunities and a pathway to international success.
*Historic Initiative by IABF: Arun Singh*
The Pro Boxing League represents a landmark initiative by the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation to strengthen the professional boxing ecosystem in India. Throughout the five-day event, athletes competed in high-quality bouts under professional standards, while thousands of spectators filled the stadium to witness a new chapter in Indian boxing.
The league combined world-class competition with professional presentation, creating an exciting sporting spectacle for boxing enthusiasts across the country.
*Grand Finale Attended by Eminent Dignitaries: Dr. Rakesh Mishra*
The closing ceremony commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Shri Arun Singh, National General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha).
The championship prizes were presented by Shri Brajesh Pathak, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, who honoured the winners with championship medals, trophies and special awards. Men’s gold medallists received Honda motorcycles, while women’s gold medallists were awarded Honda Scooties, making the inaugural edition unique in Indian boxing.
Among the distinguished guests were Shri Tarun Chug, National General Secretary, BJP; Shri Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, former Union Minister; Smt. Sunita Duggal, former Member of Parliament; Shri Bhausaheb Wakchaure, Member of Parliament; Shri Ashok Singhal, Cabinet Minister, Government of Assam; senior government officials, sports administrators, former athletes and eminent personalities from across the country.
All distinguished guests, former champions, Arjuna Award recipients, technical officials, referees, judges and sports administrators were felicitated during the closing ceremony.
*Theme Song “Mukka Maar” Became the Identity of the League:Pt. Somesh Mathur Mumbai*
Adding a unique cultural flavour to the championship was the official PBL theme song “Mukka Maar,” composed and presented by renowned music director Somesh Mathur. Played throughout the tournament, the anthem energised athletes and spectators alike, becoming an instant symbol of the league’s spirit, passion and determination.
*Five Days of World-Class Boxing: Rakesh Thakran General Secretary IABF*
The championship featured exciting contests across multiple weight categories, with athletes displaying remarkable technique, courage, discipline and sportsmanship. Every session witnessed closely fought bouts, reflecting the growing depth of boxing talent across India.
Thousands of boxing enthusiasts, students, families and supporters attended the championship, creating an electrifying atmosphere inside Talkatora Indoor Stadium throughout the five days.
*Dr. Rakesh Mishra: “A New Era for Indian Boxing”*
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rakesh Mishra, National President, Indian Amateur Boxing Federation, described the successful organisation of the Pro Boxing League as a watershed moment for Indian boxing.
He said:
“The Pro Boxing League is not merely a tournament; it is the beginning of a new era for Indian boxing. Our vision is to establish a strong professional boxing structure that nurtures talent, creates sustainable opportunities for athletes and prepares Indian boxers to compete successfully on the international stage. This league will inspire future generations and strengthen India’s position in world boxing.”
Dr. Mishra thanked all dignitaries, athletes, coaches, franchise owners, technical officials, referees, judges, sponsors, media representatives, volunteers and spectators for contributing to the success of the inaugural edition.
*Rakesh Thakran: PBL Sets a New Benchmark*
Mr. Rakesh Thakran, General Secretary, Indian Amateur Boxing Federation, congratulated all participating teams and athletes and said the successful conduct of the inaugural Pro Boxing League had established a new benchmark for professional boxing in India.
He emphasised that IABF remains committed to organising more professional competitions that provide Indian boxers with greater opportunities for growth, recognition and international exposure.
*Congratulations Received from Across the Country: Sashikant Mishra*
The successful organisation of India’s first Pro Boxing League received widespread appreciation from political leaders, sports administrators and well-wishers across the nation.
Congratulatory messages were received from Shri Nitin Nabin, Smt. Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Delhi, Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Vijender Gupta(Speaker Delhi Legislative Assembly), Vishwash Kailash Sarang, Youth and Sports Minister MP, Shri Keshav Maurya( DY. chief Minister UP), Former Youth and Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and Syad Shahnawaz Husain, along with Members of Parliament, Ministers, senior public representatives and sports personalities from different parts of the country.
The leaders congratulated the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation and its National President, Dr. Rakesh Mishra, for launching a professional boxing league that is expected to transform the future of Indian boxing by providing athletes with a high-level competitive platform and greater national and international opportunities.
*A Landmark Achievement for Indian Boxing: Sanjeev Kumar*
The successful completion of the inaugural Pro Boxing League has laid the foundation for a structured professional boxing ecosystem in India. By combining elite competition, athlete welfare, professional event management and national participation, the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation has created a platform that promises to elevate Indian boxing to new heights.
The championship concluded with the National Anthem, followed by celebrations from the athletes and spectators, bringing the curtain down on a memorable first edition that will be remembered as a defining milestone in the history of Indian boxing.
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