Asian Games 2023: Nikhat Zareen settles for bronze after shocking upset in semifinal

Parveen secures bronze too

Nikhat Zareen lost her fight in the semifinal round of Women’s 50 kg and settled for a bronze medal at the Asian Games 2023. The two-time world champion showcased remarkable prowess in her previous encounters, demonstrating sheer dominance over her adversaries. However, to her dismay, she encountered an unexpected setback against the formidable Thai fighter, Raksat Chuthamat, eventually succumbing to defeat.

Nikhat lost the bout via split decision. The Indian boxer started the semi-final bout on the front foot and even won the first round 3-2 via split decision. But her Thai opponent made a comeback in the second round, winning it 3-2 via split decision.

In the third and final round, Rakshat garnered an impressive score of four perfect 10s, while Nikhat managed a single perfect 10. This result ultimately tilted the scales in her favor, leading to her victory.

Other than Nikhat there were two other boxers who had their matches today. Parveen and Jaismine competed in the quarter-final of their respective events.

Early in the morning, Parveen competed against Turdikova from Uzbekistan in the Women's 57kg category. Not only did she emerge victorious, but she also secured a bronze medal for the country and secured her place in the Paris Olympics 2024 with a dominating display of skills. She won her bout 5-0 against the Uxbekistan’s boxer.

Unfortunately, Jaismine faced a defeat against North Korea's Won Ungyong. Despite initially leading in the first round, Jaismine found herself in a precarious situation after receiving a series of formidable punches from her North Korean opponent. The referee intervened and halted the bout.

With Nikhat Zareen’s bronze and Parveen’s entry into the semifinal round, India’s medal tally in boxing has risen to five as Preeti Pawar, Lovlina Borgohain and Narender Berwal have already cemented their place in the semifinals.

India currently occupies the fourth position in the medal table, boasting an impressive tally of 48 accolades across various disciplines.