Hussamuddin Loses Comeback Bout in Olympic Boxing Qualifier
Mohammed Hussamuddin, India’s World Championships bronze medalist, made a disappointing return to competitive boxing after an injury lay-off, losing 0-4 to Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in the men’s 57kg clash at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy.
Hussamuddin, who had earlier received a first-round bye, was competing for the first time since the 2023 World Championships quarterfinals when he injured his left knee. He took some time to settle in, allowing his opponent, Birmingham CWG champion Gallagher, to take a lead with his technical prowess.
The youngster used speed and agility to his advantage, pocketing the first round 5-0. Hussamuddin tried to cover lost ground in round two, but his comeback became even more difficult after he was handed a one-point deduction for dropping his head.
The 22-year-old Gallagher maintained his composure in the third round, preventing Hussamuddin from attacking and eventually winning the bout.
India fielded nine boxers in the competition, but only Nishant Dev (71kg) remains in the fray to seal a quota. He will be in action in the pre-quarterfinals on Sunday.
India has already secured four quotas for Paris 2024 with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg), and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) confirming their berths with impressive performances at the Asian Games.