Boxing: Amit Panghal Secures Fifth Paris Olympics Quota for India with Unanimous Win Over China's Liu Chuang

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New Delhi, Jun 2: India's Commonwealth Games gold medallist boxer Amit Panghal became the second male boxer to bag the Paris Olympics quota in the ongoing Boxing World Qualifiers in Bangkok.

Panghal showcased his exceptional skill and resilience to secure country's fifth quota for the Olympics 2024. He earned a unanimous 5:0 verdict against China's Liu Chuang in the 51kg quarterfinals on Sunday (June 2).

Panghal, known for his quick movements and effective combinations of jabs and uppercuts, overcame a slow start. He delivered an outstanding performance in the final rounds to ensure his victory.

India previously secured three quotas at the 2022 Asian Games through podium finishes by Nikhat Zareen (women's 50kg), Preeti (54kg), and Tokyo Olympics bronze medallist Lovlina Borgohain (75kg).

Earlier this week, Nishant Dev became the first Indian male boxer to secure a Paris berth by defeating Moldova's Vasile Cebotari in the 71kg quarterfinals.

Panghal's determination and aggressive strategy against Chuang, who initially led by winning Round 1 with a 4:1 score, were crucial. The Indian champion dominated Round 2, impressing all five judges with relentless attacks.

The final round was an intense exchange, but Panghal's smart maneuvering and precise combinations secured his win. He smartly manoeuvred his Chinese opponent and landed his combination on his face and body to clinch the bout with a unanimous verdict.

India has the potential to clinch two more Paris Olympic berths later today. Jaismine will face Mali's Marine Camara in the women's 57kg quarterfinals, and Sachin Siwach will compete against Kyrgyzstan's Munarbek Seiitbek Uul in the men's 57kg third-place playoff.