#MeetTheMedalists: Who is India's star boxer Amit Panghal?
India finally clinched a medal in a boxing event at the Asian Games 2018, as Amit Panghal struck gold in men's 49 kg category. The interesting aspect of the win was that he defeated former Olympic champion, Hasanboy Dusmatov of Uzbekistan, by a split decision on Saturday. In a tough final bout, he didn't let the Uzbek star get the better of him.
Superb show by Panghal lands him gold
Panghal is the lone Indian boxer who won a gold at 2018 Asian Games. His heroics ensured that the boxing contingent finished their campaign on a high note. The first round was pretty even with both boxers being cautious. Panghal then gained prominence in second round and was able to land some hits. Dusmatov took the attack next, but fell short.
Beating Dusmatov a big moment for the Indian boxer
Panghal had lost to Dusmatov last year in Hamburg World Championships. The Uzbek star, who was voted the best male boxer at the Olympics in Rio 2016, had clinched the gold in the light flyweight category. To beat such a recognized athlete will give the Indian ace a lot of confidence. In the semis, as well, Panghal had won 3-2 in split decision.
Background and achievements of Panghal
Son of a farmer, Panghal was born on October 16, 1995 and is an amateur boxer. He hails from Haryana. His elder brother inspired him to take up boxing. Panghal works as a junior commissioned officer in the Indian army. He won a bronze medal at the 2017 Asian Amateur Boxing Championships. He also won a silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
