India’s poor campaign at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy, continued as the 2023 World Championship bronze medallist Mohammad Hussamuddin went down 0-4 against Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in the men’s 57kg round-of-32 match.
After getting a bye in the first round, Hussamuddin, who is making a comeback after an injury, let his opponent take the lead in the first round. Now with this loss, all of the Indian boxers fray have been ousted, except for Nishant Dev in men’s 71 kg category. He will be in action in the pre-quarterfinals late on Sunday.
The Indian contingent had poor outing overall, with none of them managing to win bouts. Having said that, India has secured four quotas for Paris 2024 with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg) and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg). All four had secured their berths at the Asian Games 2023.
Meanwhile, 49 quotas are on offer at the tournament, with one such qualifier to go as well. That event will be held in Bangkok from May 23 to June 3, where Team India will look for an improved performance.