Indian Boxers Struggle in World Olympic Qualifier, Chahar Knocked Out

Reigning national champion Lakshya Chahar's Olympic dream suffered a setback as he became the fourth Indian boxer to bow out in the opening round of the first World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy.

Chahar, competing in the men's 80kg event, faced a formidable opponent in 2021 Asian Championships silver medallist Gheshlaghi Meysam of Iran. Despite a valiant effort, Chahar was knocked out in the third round, ending his hopes of securing an Olympic quota.

The Indian contingent has faced a disappointing start to the qualifier, with all four boxers who have taken the ring failing to advance to the second round. World Championships bronze medallist Deepak Bhoria (51kg), Asian Games bronze medallist Narender Berwal (92kg), and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Jaismine Lamboria (60kg) all suffered first-round defeats.

However, five Indian boxers remain in contention for Paris Olympic quotas: world championships bronze medallist Mohammed Hussamudin and six-time Asian Championships medal winner Shiva Thapa. A semifinal finish will guarantee them a quota.

India has already secured four 2024 Olympic quotas through Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti Pawar (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg), and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg), who clinched their entry at the Asian Games last year.

Boxers who fail to earn quotas in Italy will have a final chance to qualify for the Paris Games at the second World Olympic Boxing Qualifier, scheduled for May 23 to June 3 in Bangkok.

Tags: #Boxing, #WorldOlympicQualifier, #LakshyaChahar, #IndianBoxing, #Paris2024