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Bhagwan packs a punch
Former Asian Championship bronze medallist Jai Bhagwan couldn't have asked for a better result. The Haryana Police pugilist, who is making a comeback after 18 months, clinched gold at the AK Mishra International Tournament. Saurabh Duggal reports.
Former Asian Championship bronze medallist Jai Bhagwan couldn't have asked for a better result. The Haryana Police pugilist, who is making a comeback after 18 months, clinched gold at the AK Mishra International Tournament here on Sunday.
Bhagwan outclassed Uzbekistan's Ahmedov Kamoldin 6-0 to emerge winner in the lightweight (60kg) category.
Jai Bhagwan had announced his arrival in the tournament with an impressive victory over Athens Olympian Diwakar Prasad in the opening round. And the way he went about his business, brushing aside big names quickly, he seemed a clear contender for the title.
His defence was exceptional. In fact, in his three bouts, he conceded just three points.
However, it was Ram Singh's victory, which left the audience spellbound. The Punjab boxer scored an upset victory over national champion Paramjit Samota of Indian Railways to win the super heavyweight title (+91kg).
Trailing 1-3 halfway through the second round, Ram bagged three successive points to turn the scoreline in his favour.
Starting with one-point lead in the third and the final round, Ram took a close guard and scored a couple of points on counter attacks to wrap up the tie 6-4.
Youth World Champion Nanao Singh and Youth Commonwealth Games gold medallist Balwinder Singh lived up to expectations, clinching gold in 48kg and 64kg.
