Imphal: Manipur boxer Mandengbam Jadumani Singh secured a place in the men’s 55kg final at the Commonwealth Games 2026, defeating Namibia’s Philip Pumulo Mutakela Haoseb in a commanding semifinal bout to move within one win of a gold medal.

With the victory, Jadumani has already assured India of at least a silver medal and will now fight for the top podium finish in the final. Speaking after the bout, the Indian pugilist said he had arrived at the Games with the sole objective of winning gold for the country.

“The opponent was great today. I also strategised on how to play. I came here to win the gold medal. I will dedicate it to the entire country and my coach,” Jadumani said. The Manipur boxer’s progression to the final triggered celebrations in his home state, with family members expressing pride and confidence ahead of the title clash.

His elder brother, Robinson Mandengbam, said the family had always believed Jadumani would make it to the final. “We are feeling ecstatic. He has reached the final, and we are very happy. We were confident that he would win; we always believed he would win,” Robinson said.

Jadumani will now compete for the Commonwealth Games gold medal in the men’s 55kg category, carrying India’s hopes and aiming to add another major international title to his growing achievements.