Aichi-Nagoya, 23 September (H.S.): Indian boxer Ankush Panghal advanced to the Round of 16 in the men’s 80kg category at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on Wednesday, defeating Bahrain’s Hamsa Vogel by a unanimous 5-0 decision in the Round of 32.

Panghal, who entered the Asian Games after winning gold in the men’s 80kg category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, established control from the opening bell. He began cautiously in the first round before finding his rhythm and landing effective punches to build an early advantage. All five judges awarded the round to the Indian.

Vogel adopted a more aggressive approach in the second round, but Panghal responded with a combination of powerful punches and maintained control of the contest.

Once again, all five judges scored the round 5-0 in favour of Panghal.

Panghal continued to hold the upper hand in the final round. Vogel struggled to consistently trouble the Indian boxer, while Panghal maintained his dominance as the contest progressed.

The judges unanimously awarded the third round to Panghal as well, confirming his 5-0 victory.

With the win, Ankush Panghal has secured his place in the Round of 16 in the men’s 80kg category and will now continue his campaign at the Asian Games.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar