U22 Men’s Finalists Decided as Powerhouse Nations Dominate Day 6 Morning Session

The Asian Boxing U19 & U22 Boxing Championships 2025 continued with high-stakes action in the U22 men’s division, as 20 semifinal bouts were contested in Wednesday’s morning session. Every match determined who would advance to the gold medal bouts, and the level of skill and intensity reflected the enormous pressure on the line.

Uzbekistan extended its dominance in the championships by securing victories in eight weight classes. Among the highlights were commanding wins by Samandar Olimov (55kg), Mukhamad Azizbek Ismoilov (70kg), Shohruh Abdumalikov (60kg), and Rakhmatullo Boymatov (80kg), all prevailing by wide margins. Khalimjon Mamasoliev forced a stoppage in round two of the super heavyweight bout, while Shavkatjon Boltaev (75kg) earned a clean sweep over Thailand’s Thananchai Phoemsap.

Kazakhstan matched that dominance with seven semifinal victories, including a walkover win for Ilya Kalinin (65kg). Sanzhar-Ali Begaliyev (80kg) and Temirlan Mukatayev (90kg) both earned referee stoppages, while Nurbek Mursal (70kg) and Nurislam Kaldybayev (60kg) impressed with strong performances. Neeraj of India handed Kazakhstan another tough challenge at middleweight but fell short as Kazakhstan’s depth continued to shine.

India, Japan, Iran, Thailand, and Mongolia also made their mark. Ishan Kataria (IND) advanced in the super heavyweight division with a third-round stoppage. Sam Estaki (IRI) delivered an impressive RSC victory at 85kg, and Thitiwat Phlongaurai (THA) earned a tight 3:2 decision to reach the final at 50kg. Mongolia’s Dulguunsaikhan Kharkhuu received a walkover in the 55kg division.

The morning session also showcased several bouts that ended in RSC (Referee Stopped Contest), highlighting both the talent disparity in some matchups and the dominance of Asia’s top prospects. In all, the 20 semifinals served as a thrilling display of elite-level Olympic-style boxing, setting the stage for an electric finals round in the U22 men’s category.