Two-time world champion Nikhat Zareen powered into the women’s 50kg Olympics pre-quarterfinals with a hard-fought victory over Germany’s Maxi Carina Kloetzer on Sunday. The 28-year-old Indian boxer, making her Olympic debut, secured her spot with a 5-0 win in a closely contested round of 32 match at the North Paris Arena.
Slow Start, Strong Comeback
Despite trailing on three cards after the first round, Zareen showcased her resilience and tactical acumen to turn the bout in her favor. The unseeded Zareen faced an aggressive start from Kloetzer, who closed the ring on her with an attacking approach. However, Zareen expertly regained control, delivering powerful blows and forcing her way back to the center of the ring.
The German boxer, at a height disadvantage, effectively used her jab to claim the first round with a 3-2 split verdict. The second round saw both boxers trading punches frantically, but Zareen found her rhythm, connecting lethal hooks on Kloetzer. Despite both pugilists attempting to impress the judges, Zareen’s tactical prowess shone through.
Kloetzer faced a point deduction for not keeping her head up, but Zareen lost the point advantage almost immediately due to a penalty for holding. In the final round, Zareen continued to land accurate blows while Kloetzer, visibly exhausted, resorted to grappling and received multiple warnings from the referee. Zareen’s persistent and accurate strikes secured her the round and ultimately the victory.
Looking ahead, Zareen faces a challenging draw. She will compete against top-seeded Asian Games and reigning flyweight world champion Wu Yu of China, who received a first-round bye, in the pre-quarterfinals on Thursday.