Uzbekistan and China Dominate Boxing at the 2024 Paris Olympics
The boxing competitions at the 2024 Paris Olympics showcased thrilling matches and outstanding performances, with Uzbekistan and China emerging as the dominant forces. Across 13 contested events, Uzbekistan excelled, securing gold medals in five of the seven men’s categories.
Uzbekistan’s Triumph in Men’s Boxing
The standout athlete for Uzbekistan was Bakhodir Jalolov, who defended his title in the super heavyweight division (92+ kg/202+ lbs), marking a highlight of the games. His victory not only solidified his status as a champion but also underscored Uzbekistan’s strength in the sport.
Medal Overview
Here’s a summary of the boxing medal tally from the 2024 Paris Olympics:
- Uzbekistan: 5 Gold
- China: 3 Gold, 2 Silver
- Chinese Taipei: 1 Gold, 2 Bronze
- France: 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Turkiye: 2 Silver, 1 Bronze
- Cuba: 1 Gold, 1 Bronze
Women’s Boxing Highlights
Significant Performances from China
China made a remarkable impact in women’s boxing, clinching two gold medals. In the Women’s Flyweight (50 kg), Wu Yu showcased her talent by defeating Tokyo 2020 silver medalist Buse Naz Cakiroglu in a fierce match.
- Gold: Wu Yu (CHN)
- Silver: Buse Naz Cakiroglu (TUR)
- Bronze: Nazim Kyzaibay (KAZ) & Aira Villegas (PHI)
Other Notable Women’s Events
In the Bantamweight (54 kg) division, Chang Yuan secured China’s first gold, dominating her Turkish opponent with a decisive 5-0 victory. Meanwhile, Kellie Harrington of Ireland successfully defended her title in the Women’s Lightweight (60 kg), adding to her country’s medal tally.
Medalists Summary in Women’s Boxing
- Women’s Lightweight (60 kg):
- Gold: Kellie Harrington (IRL)
- Silver: Yang Wenlu (CHN)
- Bronze: Beatriz Ferreira (BRA) & Shih Yi Wu (TPE)
- Women’s Welterweight (66 kg):
- Gold: Imane Khelif (ALG)
- Silver: Yang Liu (CHN)
- Bronze: Janjaem Suwannapheng (THA) & Chen Nien-Chin (TPE)
Men’s Boxing Highlights
Uzbekistan’s Continued Success
Uzbekistan’s Hasanboy Dusmatov, a previous Olympic champion, added to the country’s glory by winning the Men’s Flyweight (51 kg) final against France’s Billal Bennama. This victory was particularly significant following a day of disappointment for the French team.
Key Medalists in Men’s Boxing
- Men’s Flyweight (51 kg):
- Gold: Hasanboy Dusmatov (UZB)
- Silver: Billal Bennama (FRA)
- Bronze: Junior Alcantara (DOM) & David de Pina (CPV)
- Men’s Super Heavyweight (92+ kg):
- Gold: Bakhodir Jalolov (UZB)
- Silver: Ayoub Ghadfa (ESP)
- Bronze: Nelvie Tiafack (GER) & Djamili-Dini Aboudou Moindze (FRA)
With such impressive performances, the boxing events at the Paris Olympics have not only highlighted the prowess of individual athletes but also the rising prominence of nations like Uzbekistan and China in the sport. As competitors from around the globe showcased their skills, the legacy of these games will undoubtedly influence the future of boxing in the Olympics.