Nishant Dev Advances Towards Securing Paris 2024 Olympics Boxing Quota for India
Dara Singh Chahal
11th Mar 2024: Nishant Dev, competing in the men’s 71kg category, has emerged as the sole Indian boxer progressing at the World Olympic Boxing Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio. With a victory in the pre-quarterfinals, Nishant stands one step away from securing a coveted Paris 2024 Olympics quota for India in the men’s 71kg weight category.
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Nishant Dev secured a resounding 5:0 unanimous decision victory over Christos Karaitis of Greece in the pre-quarterfinals, advancing to the quarter-finals with confidence and optimism.
Expressing his elation after the match, Nishant shared, “I am very happy. I was well prepared for this fight. I hope I make it to the Paris Olympics.” He acknowledged the rigorous preparation undertaken with his team and voiced his determination to excel in the upcoming crucial bout.
Nishant Dev’s next challenge awaits as he faces Omari Jones of the USA, a world championships silver medallist, in the quarter-finals scheduled for Monday. A triumphant performance in this pivotal match will secure an Olympic boxing quota for India in the men’s 71kg event, marking a significant milestone in Nishant’s career and Indian boxing.
Nishant’s journey to the quarter-finals has been marked by impressive victories over notable opponents, including Tokyo Olympian Eskerkhan Madiev of Georgia and Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Lewis Richardson of Great Britain.
Amidst stiff competition and high stakes, Nishant Dev remains the sole representative from India among the nine boxers who participated in the tournament. Despite the early exits of prominent boxers like Shiva Thapa and Mohammad Hussamuddin, Nishant’s perseverance and skill have kept India’s hopes alive on the international stage.
The World Olympic boxing qualification tournament, featuring nearly 600 boxers, presents a pivotal opportunity for athletes to secure coveted quotas for the Paris 2024 Olympics. With India already securing four boxing quotas through women athletes at the Asian Games, Nishant Dev’s potential qualification adds to the nation’s aspirations for Olympic success.
As Nishant Dev prepares to face his next challenge, the entire nation stands behind him, hopeful for his success and eager to witness India’s continued rise in the global boxing arena.
