Vijender Singh etched his name in Indian boxing history by clinching the first-ever Olympic medal for the country in 2008.
Indian boxing has seen a steady rise in recent Olympics, culminating in the hope for continued success in upcoming Games. This article looks at India’s most notable boxing performances across various weight categories at the Olympics.
Vijender Singh etched his name in Indian boxing history by clinching the first-ever Olympic medal for the country in 2008. Competing in the middleweight category (75kg) at the Beijing Games, Singh displayed exceptional technique. He dominated his initial bouts against Badou Jack (Gambia) and AngkhanChompuphuang (Thailand), showcasing his powerful punches and sharp footwork. Singh continued his winning streak against Carlos Gongora (Ecuador), securing his place in the semi-finals. Although he fell short against the experienced Cuban boxer Emilio Correa, Singh’s bronze medal accomplishment paved the way for future Indian boxers.
The London Olympics in 2012 witnessed another defining moment for Indian boxing. Mary Kom, a legend in the sport with numerous world championship titles, secured a well-deserved bronze medal in the women’s flyweight category (51kg). Her journey began with a victory over Karolina Michalczuk (Poland) followed by a convincing win against MarouaRahali (Tunisia).
Magnificent Mary Kom 🥊🫡
— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) November 21, 2023
First Women boxer to win an Olympic Medal 🇮🇳#Legends #Boxing #Olympics pic.twitter.com/oLpnDUisRj
Kom’s agility and strategic maneuvering were on display throughout these matches. Though she couldn’t overcome the eventual gold medalist Nicola Adams (Great Britain) in the semi-finals, Kom’s bronze medal win solidified her position as a dominant force in women’s boxing.
VikasKrishanYadav continued India’s boxing success at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Representing India in the middleweight category (75kg) once again, Yadav displayed his talent and fighting spirit. He secured convincing wins against Charles Conwell (USA) and OnderSipal (Turkey) in the initial rounds.
Yadav’s impressive performance continued until the quarter-finals, where he faced the eventual gold medalist BektemirMelikuziev (Uzbekistan). Although he couldn’t progress further, Yadav’s performance showcased the growing strength of Indian boxers on the Olympic stage.
The most recent Indian boxing success story comes from Lovlina Borgohain at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Borgohain,competing in the women’s welterweight category (69kg), displayed remarkable composure and tactical prowess. She fought her way through the competition, defeating challenging opponents like NouchkaFontayn (Netherlands) and Nadine Apetz (Germany). Borgohain’s bronze medal win marked a significant achievement, making her only the third Indian boxer, and the second Indian female boxer, to secure an Olympic medal.
While medals represent the pinnacle of achievement, it’s important to acknowledge the commendable performances of other Indian boxers at the Olympics. Devendra Singh (2012) reached the quarter-finals in the light flyweight category (49kg), showcasing his potential despite facing a strong opponent in Paddy Barnes (Ireland). Similarly, Vijender Singh’s repeat appearance at the 2012 Olympics, though not resulting in a medal, demonstrated his dedication and consistency on the international stage.
In conclusion, Indian boxing has come a long way at the Olympics. From Vijender Singh’s pioneering bronze to Lovlina Borgohain’s recent triumph, Indian boxers have consistently challenged strong contenders and delivered remarkable performances across various weight categories.
