Indian pugilist Lovlina Borgohain beat her Thailand opponent Baison Maneekon in the semifinals of the 75 kg category of the boxing event at the Asian Games 2023 on Tuesday, October 3.
She won 5:0 on points to reach the final, which also saw her seal a place at the Paris Olympics in 2024.
World champion Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) secured her spot for the upcoming Olympics by advancing to the finals while emerging Indian boxer Preeti Pawar (54kg) concluded her journey with a bronze medal at the Asian Games this Tuesday.
Borgohain, who previously clinched a bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, skillfully navigated her match against Thailand's Asian Championship silver medallist, Baison Manikon. She emerged victorious with a unanimous decision, thereby confirming her participation in the forthcoming Paris Games. Meanwhile, Preeti delivered a commendable performance but faced a 0-5 defeat against China's reigning flyweight champion, Chang Yuan. Notably, Preeti has also secured her Olympic quota.
Both these left-handed boxers displayed exceptional technique and understanding of the sport in the initial three minutes of their bouts. Preeti attempted to strategically land her right hook, while Chang countered with her own right hook.
During a notable exchange, the young 19-year-old Indian managed to land a sequence of punches, including a double jab, two right hooks, and a pair of body shots, earning vital points. However, Chang responded with a fierce right cross and a series of jabs.
Chang's punches were more precise, leading four out of five judges to score the first round in her favour.
In the subsequent round Preeti increased her aggression, aiming to penetrate Chang's defenses. Yet, with the crowd cheering her on, Chang adeptly manoeuvred around the ring, defending against Preeti's advances.
On a couple of occasions, Chang received warnings for striking Preeti behind her head.
With a solid lead established, Chang adopted a defensive stance in the last round, ultimately securing her victory.
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