Paris Olympics Boxing Competition: Key Highlights and Athletes to Watch
The boxing tournaments at the Paris Olympics are shaping up to be some of the most exciting and historic events of the Games. Here’s everything you need to know, from the standout athletes to the crucial dates and storylines that could define the competition.
Athletes to Watch
Arlen López (Cuba): At 31 years old, this two-time Olympic champion is aiming to join the ranks of the few three-time gold medalists in Olympic boxing history. López, known for his exceptional skills and tactical prowess, will likely face stiff competition from the Philippines’ Eumir Marcial, a promising professional boxer and a protégé of the legendary Manny Pacquiao.
Julio César La Cruz (Cuba): Another Cuban boxing powerhouse, La Cruz is returning to the Olympics after briefly stepping into the professional arena in 2022. The heavyweight boxer is also on a quest to secure his third Olympic gold, adding his name to the elite list of boxers who have achieved this feat.
Teremoana “Junior” Teremoana (Australia): Standing at 6-foot-6, this super heavyweight is one of the most intriguing fighters on Australia’s strong boxing team. With four professional knockouts to his name, Teremoana is a force to be reckoned with in the ring.
Kellie Harrington (Ireland): The reigning lightweight champion from Tokyo, Harrington is back to defend her title. However, she faces new challenges, including her first loss in nearly three years and criticism over her social media stances on immigration. Despite these setbacks, Harrington remains a top contender.
Busenaz Sürmeneli (Turkey): After dominating the welterweight category in Tokyo, where she won Turkey’s first-ever Olympic boxing medal, Sürmeneli returns with her sights set on more glory in Paris. She has already become a standard-bearer for women’s boxing and is eyeing the Los Angeles Olympics as well.
Storylines to Follow
Historic Women’s Participation: The Paris Olympics will feature the largest number of female boxers in Olympic history, with competitors across a record six weight classes. Since women’s boxing was introduced to the Olympic program in 2012, the sport has grown exponentially, and this year’s deep field is a testament to that progress.
The Uncertain Future of Olympic Boxing: Despite its long and storied history, Olympic boxing faces an uncertain future. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) recently cut ties with the sport’s previous governing body, raising concerns that boxing could be dropped from the Olympic program before the 2028 Los Angeles Games. However, a new breakaway organization is working to preserve the sport’s Olympic status.
Key Dates
July 27: The boxing competitions kick off, with athletes from around the world stepping into the ring at the Paris Olympics.
August 10: The boxing tournament concludes, with the final gold medal bouts taking place just one day before the closing ceremony. These final matches will be held at the iconic Roland Garros tennis complex, adding an extra layer of prestige to the event.
Reigning Champions
Men’s Flyweight: Galal Yafai (Britain)
Men’s Featherweight: Albert Batyrgaziev (ROC)
Men’s Lightweight: Andy Cruz (Cuba)
Men’s Welterweight: Roniel Iglesias (Cuba)
Men’s Light Heavyweight: Arlen López (Cuba)
Men’s Heavyweight: Julio César La Cruz (Cuba)
Men’s Super Heavyweight: Bakhodir Jalolov (Uzbekistan)
Women’s Flyweight: Stoyka Krasteva (Bulgaria)
Women’s Featherweight: Sena Irie (Japan)
Women’s Lightweight: Kellie Harrington (Ireland)
Women’s Welterweight: Busenaz Sürmeneli (Turkey)
Women’s Middleweight: Lauren Price (Britain)
Women’s Bantamweight: New category debuting in Paris
With a blend of seasoned champions and emerging talents, the Paris Olympics boxing competition promises to deliver thrilling bouts and historic achievements. Whether you’re following the potential three-time gold medalists or the growing women’s categories, this is an Olympic event you won’t want to miss.
