Boxer Vikas enters Olympics pre-quarterfinals

Boxer Vikas enters Olympics pre-quarterfinals

Rio de Janeiro, Aug 10 (IANS) Vikas Krishan Yadav gave India’s boxing campaign a winning start at the Rio Olympics with a dominant victory over Charles Conwell of the US at the Riocentrio Pavilion here.

The Indian outpunched the 18-year-old American by a unanimous decision in the Round of 32 bout with all three judges ruling 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 in favour of the Haryana boxer sending him to the pre-quarterfinals.

Boxer Vikas enters Olympic pre-quarterfinals (Lead)

Rio de Janeiro, Aug 10 (IANS) Vikas Krishan Yadav gave India’s boxing campaign a rousing start at the Rio Olympics with a dominant victory over Charles Conwell of the US at the Riocentrio Pavilion here.

The Indian outpunched the 18-year-old American by a unanimous decision in the Round of 32 bout with all three judges ruling 29-28, 29-28, 29-28 in favour of the Haryana boxer sending him to the pre-quarterfinals.

Vikas dominated the opening round with powerful shots to the body and a couple to the face as well. The American kept his head low and absorbed the Indian’s punches as most of Vikas’ attempted punches to the face landed on top of his head.

The American did land a few body punches of his own but he was totally outgunned by the pugilist from Haryana.

Vikas displayed superior footwork and defence which coupled with his height advantage ensured that most of Conwell’s attempted jabs to the face could only brush the top of his head.

Vikas was more relaxed in the second round, sitting back and forcing the American to work harder. He seemed to have the measure of his opponent, relying on his counterpunching style to punch holes in his opponent’s defence time and again.

The 24-year-old from the Haryana Police landed quite a few punches to the body and face of Conwell, clearly outclassing the American with his speed and excellent combinations.

Comwel was more aggressive in the final round as Vikas focused more on preserving his lead. The American produced a much better show in the closing stages, but it proved to be too little too late.