World Boxing: Vijender in pre-quarters, Nanao out

MILAN - India’s Olympic bronze medallist Vijender Singh moved into the second round of World Boxing Championships with a 14-8 win over Belgibayev Azamat of Kazakhstan in the 75 kilogram category.

But there was some bad news too for India here Saturday, as Asian silver medallist Thokchom Nanao Singh lost his pre-quarterfinal bout to Thai boxer Pongprayoon Kaeo in the 48 kg category.

Vijender’s score might look convincing but the Indian had to fight hard for the win. Vijender started cautiously in the first round and within the thirty seconds the Kazakh took a 0-3 lead. Vijender gradually picked up steam and scored a couple of lusty blows by the end of first round reduced the margin to 3-5.

In the second round, Vijender used his experience with strong counter punches and by the end of the round took a slender lead of 9:8 points.

The Indian completely dominated the third and the final round and didn’t allow the Kazakh to get a single point. Vijender’s punches were quick and powerful and Azamat find it tough to reply back.

In the pre-quarters, Vijender will now meet Canada’s Rolls Steve who defeated the local favourite Podda Luca of Italy. Vijender will have to use intelligence and controlled aggression as the Canadian looks extremely strong in physique but Vijender will enjoy a height advantage.