In a major development, Indian boxer Nikhat Zareen has guaranteed India a medal at the ongoing Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Furthermore, her impressive performance in the 50kg weight category secured a coveted quota spot for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The two-time World Champion achieved this milestone by triumphing over Jordan's Nassar and advancing to the semi-finals. She becomes the Indian boxer to secure quota for Paris Olympics. Nikhat's bout against Jordan's Nassar in the 50kg weight category was nothing short of spectacular, lasting a mere 53 seconds.
From the moment the opening bell rang, Nikhat took control of the fight. Her powerful right hook found its mark on Nassar's face, leaving the Jordanian boxer with no choice but to take evasive action. The referee swiftly intervened, stopping the bout and declaring Nikhat the winner.
As far as the other results are concerned, Parveen Hooda managed to secure a place in the quarter-finals while Lakshya Chahar had to succumb to a 1-4 defeat to Kyrgyzstan's Omurbek Bekzhigit Uulu in the men's 80kg round of 16. In the previous round, Nikhat had showed her dominance over her South Korean adversary, registering a 5-0 win over Chorong Bak in the Round of 16 event.
It is pertinent to note that this will be India's first medal in the Asian Games and she will now look to win a gold medal before hoping to carry the same form into the Paris Olympics.