In a stellar display of skill and determination, Indian boxer Nishant Dev triumphed over Christos Karaitis of Greece with a resounding 5-0 victory, securing his spot in the men’s 71kg quarter-finals at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy.
Nishant’s remarkable performance not only showcased his dominating form but also positioned him just one win away from confirming his participation in the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The ongoing qualifying tournament offers quotas for all four semi-finalists in the men’s event, setting the stage for Nishant’s potential journey to the grand event in Paris.
Initiating the bout cautiously, Nishant quickly found his rhythm, delivering impactful combinations and utilizing his speed to secure points. His strategic counterattacks and acceleration in the closing seconds of the first round led to a comfortable victory.
In the subsequent round, Nishant, a southpaw, continued his lethal form, surprising his opponent with multiple combinations. A left hook that pierced the defense resulted in a standing count for Karaitis, highlighting Nishant’s dominance throughout the match.
Effectively using his jabs, Nishant maintained control in the final three minutes, sealing a one-sided victory and moving confidently into the quarter-finals.
The 23-year-old boxer from Haryana is now set to face off against Omari Jones of the USA, the 2021 World Championships silver medallist, in the upcoming quarter-finals.
India’s impressive performance in boxing has already secured four quotas for the Paris Olympics 2024, with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg), and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) confirming their berths at the Asian Games.
