Hussamuddin defeated by Commonwealth Games champion at 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier
India’s Mohammed Hussamuddin faced a setback as he lost 0-4 to Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in the men’s 57kg round-of-32 match at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy. After receiving a bye in the opening round, Hussamuddin struggled to find his rhythm against his opponent.
Hussamuddin, a bronze medallist at the 2023 World Championship, made a comeback after an injury but was unable to match Jude Gallagher’s speed and agility. The Birmingham Commonwealth games gold medallist took the lead in the first round with his technical prowess, winning 5-0.
Despite trying to cover lost ground in round two, Hussamuddin faced further challenges after being deducted a point for dropping his head. Jude Gallagher remained calm in the third round, preventing Hussamuddin from launching any significant attacks and ultimately winning the match.
In the upcoming pre-quarterfinals, India’s Nishant Dev (71kg) will be competing. The World Olympic boxing qualification tournament aims to offer a total of 49 quotas for the 2024 Paris Olympics, with 28 for men and 21 for women. The tournament is hosting over 590 boxers, with the second World Qualification Tournament scheduled in Bangkok from May 23 to June 3, where 45 to 51 boxers will qualify.
India has already secured four quotas for Paris 2024, with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg), and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) earning their berths through impressive performances at the Asian Games.
