Paris Olympics: Big heartbreak for India in boxing as Nishant Dev misses shot at bronze medal after going down fighting against Marco Verde

Nishant Dev's Olympic run ends in disappointment

With this the unseeded Nishant Dev's promising campaign at the Paris Olympics came to an abrupt end. Despite a strong start, the Indian boxer couldn't sustain his momentum, eventually losing the match by split decision at the North Paris Arena. The 23-year-old, who had showcased his talent with a bronze medal at the World Championships and a notable upset over Jorge Cuellar, was unable to replicate that form in the Olympic ring.

ALSO READ: Gautam Gambhir's decision questioned by ex-Pakistan player to send Washington Sundar to bat at no.4 during 1st ODI against Sri Lanka

A Fierce Encounter

The opening round was a high-octane affair, with both Nishant Dev and Marco Verde trading punches aggressively. Verde landed two powerful right hands towards the end of the round, forcing Nishant into a brief defensive stance. However, the Indian's effective underhooks and clean right punches were enough to secure the round.

The second round witnessed a more intense battle, with Verde dominating the early exchanges and cornering Nishant. The Indian responded with a forceful right uppercut that momentarily stunned his opponent. The physical exertion of the round was evident on both boxers, as they labored to maintain their pace and accuracy.

ALSO READ: Manu Bhaker misses out on 3rd medal in Paris Olympics 2024, loses to Hungary's Veronika Major in 25m pistol event shoot-off

The third round saw a continuation of the fierce exchanges between the two boxers. Verde landed a clean left hook to Nishant's jaw, but the Indian responded with a powerful right hook of his own. Nishant's determination and resilience were evident as he continued to fight back despite Verde's dominance. Ultimately, the judges awarded the round to Verde, securing a split decision victory. While the outcome was disappointing for Nishant, his performance showcased his fighting spirit and potential.

Lovlina Borgohain remains India's sole boxing medal hope at Paris Olympics

Nishant Dev's defeat marks the end of the road for the fifth Indian boxer at the Paris Olympics. His ouster leaves Lovlina Borgohain as India's only chance to secure a boxing medal at the Paris Olympics.

MORE ON SPORTS TAK

Massive blow for Sri Lanka, superstar player ruled out of entire series ahead of 2nd ODI against India, replacement revealed

Ishan Kishan all set for domestic cricket comeback with this team after facing BCCI's brunt with central contract exclusion

Mohammed Shami to play for this team before making India comeback from long injury layoff

IND vs SL: Why there was no Super Over in 1st ODI despite tie? Check what ICC rules say

Paris Olympic 2024: Lakshya Sen to face his biggest competition in semi-final; check who can spoil India shuttler's medal dream