Fast-rising Indian boxer Nishant Dev failed at securing Paris 2024 Olympics quota for the country at the first World Boxing Olympic Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy, as he lost his last-eight bout late on Monday. The World Championships bronze medalist Nishant lost to USA’s Omari Jones, 1-4, by a split verdict in the men’s 71 kg category.
Nishant Dev Lone Bright Spot
Meanwhile, only the semi-finalists from each category were to secure the Olympic quotas. As far as the match is concerned, Nishant was in the bout until the second round, where he scored over his opponent. But losing first and the third meant, the decision went against him.
With his exit, India’s overall poor World Boxing Olympic Qualifier came to an end. None of the pugilists from the country made it to the Olympics, from this tournament. Shiva Thapa (63.5kg), Deepak Bhoria (51kg), Narender Berwal (+92kg), Jaismine Lamboria (women’s 60kg), Sanjeet Kumar (92kg) Ankushita Boro (women’s 66kg) and Lakshya Chahar (80kg), lost in the opening rounds itself.
Indians Fails to Win at World Boxing Olympic Qualifier
Mohammad Hussamuddin (57kg) was ousted in the second, since he was handed a bye in the first round. So far, India has secured four Olympic quotas in boxing, all women. Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti Pawar (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg) and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) have qualified, courtesy of their efforts at the Asian Games 2023.
But all is not lost yet for the Indian boxers, as there is one more qualifying event that is scheduled to take place in Thailand. The Second World Boxing Olympic Qualifier will be held from May 23 to June 3.
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