Indian boxer Amit Panghal put on a show in the final match of the Men’s 51kg (Flyweight) as he defeated England’s Kiaran MacDonald to win the gold medal. Panghal won the bout with a unanimous decision of 5-0. The Indian pugilist showed great skill to keep Macdonald at bay throughout the bout. Panghal not only attacked really well, but his defense was also top-notch.
Right from the first round, Panghal looked in total control as he watchfully ducked the punches from Macdonald. The Indian boxer first took note of his opponent's move and then started attacking. Panghal landed a flurry of punches at Kiaran to unsettle him.
Despite the height disadvantage, Asian Games gold medallist Panghal was the far better pugilist among the two. In fact, Panghal used it as a weapon to land punches from beneath. Panghal's movement in the ring was also a treat to the eyes as the 2018 silver medallist was so smooth yet effective.
The Indian pugilist had a clear advantage after the end of the first two rounds as he was considered better by all five judges. Although Macdonald tried to up the ante in the third round, Panghal's hard work in the first two rounds could not be matched. Eventually, Panghal was declared the winner with a unanimous verdict of 5-0.
This was India's second gold medal in boxing as earlier, Nitu Ghanghas won the gold medal in Women's 45-48kg minimumweight. This medal will boost Panghal's confidence after he had a meltdown at the Tokyo Olympics.
