Asia Games 2023: India Secures Bronze in Boxing, China in Race to Secure Gold

Preeti Pawar of India received a bronze medal after losing the 54kg semifinal battle to China's reigning flyweight champion, Chang Yuan on Oct 3 at the Asian Games. Preeti, who already has an Olympic quota, put up a good fight but lost 0-5 against Chang.

Both Southpaw boxers demonstrated their skill and ring IQ in the first three minutes. The Chinese kept landing right punches while Preeti tried to poke and peck with a right hook.

To score critical points, the 19-year-old Indian delivered a double jab, followed by two right hooks and two body blows. Chang, on the other hand, responded aggressively with a right cross and a flurry of jabs.

The Chinese boxer landed crisper punches, and four judges voted for her advantage in the first round.

Preeti increased her intensity in the second round, hoping to shatter Chang's defense. But the Chinese, who were cheered on by the fans, defended brilliantly, moving about the ring. Chang was admonished several times for punching Priti behind the head.

Chang continued to defend in the final three minutes to secure the victory.