Zinnat creates history for Bangladesh, wins bronze at International Boxing Championship

US-based Bangladeshi boxer Zinnat Ferdous made history by clinching a bronze medal at the XIX International Silesian Women’s Boxing Championships in Gliwice, Poland, marking what is believed to be Bangladesh's first medal from the European Boxing Confederation. The tournament, held from September 2 to September 7, featured competitors from 17 countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa, including past Olympic champions. Zinnat fought in the 52kg elite class category, higher than her usual 50kg weight. She won her quarter-final bout against Kata Pap of Hungary with a 5-0 unanimous decision, securing her medal. However, she lost in the semi-final against Ukraine’s Daria-Olha Hutarina. Zinnat described the event as a groundbreaking moment in women’s amateur boxing, being the first to host bouts without headgear since the International Boxing Association's rule change in June 2024. She expressed determination to continue competing in her preferred 50kg class in future tournaments and highlighted the historical significance of this championship in the sport.