In Pics | World No.1 boxer Amit Panghal ousted from Tokyo Olympics, loses to Colombian Martinez

World number one boxer Amit Panghal was knocked out of Tokyo Olympics after losing to Colombia’s Yuberjen Martinez in his first bout in the men's 52kg (flyweight) category. Panghal lost a round of 16 by a 1:4 split verdict. Four of the five Indian men boxers at the Tokyo Olympics lost their respective opening rounds.

World number one boxer Amit Panghal was knocked out of Tokyo Olympics after losing to Colombia’s Yuberjen Martinez in his first bout in the men's 52kg (flyweight) category. Panghal lost a round of 16 by a 1:4 split verdict. Credit: PTI Photo

One of India's strongest medal contenders, Panghal was put under pressure by the sprightly Colombian in the opening round itself but the pre-bout favourite ensured that he connected better to claim the first three minutes 4-1. Credit: PTI Photo

Panghal found it tough to respond and Martinez's persistence brought him level with the top star. Credit: PTI Photo

Despite this loss, the 25-year-old Panghal remains one of the best-performing Indian boxers in recent times, having secured a gold medal at the 2018 Asian Games, followed by an unparalleled silver medal at the world championships in 2019. Credit: PTI Photo