Nishant Dev’s Olympic Journey Cut Short

India’s boxing campaign at the Paris 2024 Olympics suffered a setback as Nishant Dev was eliminated in the quarterfinals of the men’s 71kg category. The promising Indian boxer, competing in his maiden Olympic Games, fell short against Mexico’s second-seeded Marco Verde, losing by a 4-1 split decision.

A victory for Nishant would have secured him a place on the Olympic podium, as the boxing tournament awards two bronze medals to the losing semifinalists. The 23-year-old Indian started the bout aggressively, landing precise jabs and controlling the pace.

However, a shift in momentum favored Verde in the latter rounds, as the Mexican boxer adjusted his strategy and capitalized on Nishant’s apparent fatigue.

Nishant’s journey to the quarterfinals was marked by impressive performances. He qualified for the Olympics by defeating Moldova’s Vasile Cebotari at the World Boxing Qualifiers and advanced past Ecuador’s Jose Gabriel Tenorio Rodriguez in the preliminary round of the Paris Games.

Unfortunately, Nishant joins a growing list of Indian boxers who have been unable to secure medals at the Paris Olympics. Nikhat Zareen, Amit Panghal, and Preeti Pawar were eliminated in the round of 16, while Jaismine Lamboria bowed out in the round of 32. 

Lovlina Borgohain remains India’s sole hope for a boxing medal at Paris 2024. She is set to face China’s Li Qian in the quarterfinals on Sunday. 

Nishant’s defeat is a significant blow to India’s boxing aspirations at the Olympics. Despite the disappointment, the young boxer’s performance showcased his potential, and he is expected to continue his journey towards the pinnacle of the sport.

India’s shooting contingent also faced mixed fortunes. While Manu Bhaker scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal in shooting, clinching bronze in the women’s 10m air pistol, she narrowly missed out on a second medal, finishing fourth in the 25m air pistol event.