The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are set to feature some of the world's finest boxers, with the competition scheduled from July 27 to August 10. This year's event promises to be particularly thrilling, taking the stage at the iconic Roland Garros tennis complex. In this article, we are gonna go over the top 8 boxers to follow during the Olympics games.
Bakhodir Jalolov (Uzbekistan)
Bakhodir Jalolov, the current Olympic super-heavyweight champion, is preparing to defend his title in Paris. He won the gold at Tokyo 2020 and has further established his dominance with two world championships and three Asian titles. Jalolov is known for his powerful punches and strategic skill, making him a top contender. His impressive track record and determination to defend his title promise an exciting performance, solidifying his position as a formidable athlete in his division.
Watch Bakhodir vs. Ehwariememe full fight: Watch
Delicious Orie (Great Britain)
Delicious Orie, born in Russia to Nigerian and Russian parents, moved to the UK at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks of British boxing. Known for his agility and technical skill, Orie won the gold medal at the 2023 European Games. His adept footwork and strategic approach in the ring make him a formidable opponent and a strong contender for a medal in the super-heavyweight division at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Orie's unique background and determination add an intriguing narrative to his Olympic journey.
Aziz Abbes Mouhiidine (Italy)
Aziz Abbes Mouhiidine, a renowned Italian heavyweight boxer, who won gold at the 2022 European and Mediterranean Games and earned a silver medal at the 2023 World Championships. Mouhiidine has gained recognition and respect on the international stage due to his strategic fighting style and now he is aiming for the 2024 Paris Olympics, representing Italy's hopes for a medal in the heavyweight category.
Julio César La Cruz (Cuba)
Julio César La Cruz, a seasoned veteran and two-time Olympic gold medalist, is moving up to the heavyweight category for the Paris 2024 Olympics. After winning in the light heavyweight division in both Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, La Cruz is a compelling figure to watch as he aims to win another gold for Cuba.
Abner Teixeira (Brazil)
Abner Teixeira, an accomplished Brazilian heavyweight, earned a bronze medal at Tokyo 2020 and is intent on bettering that performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Known for his powerful left hook and his ability to control the fight's pace, Teixeira stands out as a dangerous opponent in the ring. Fans and analysts eagerly anticipate his bouts in Paris.
Also worth mentioning, that amidst Olympic boxing's storied century-long history, the 2024 Paris Games might mark its final appearance. Following the IOC's decision to cut ties with the sport's previous governing body due to "corruption and mismanagement issues", the future of Olympic boxing ia uncertain. Efforts by a "breakaway organization" to secure the sport's place at the 2028 Los Angeles Games offer a glimmer of hope, but uncertainty still looms large. Many are of the opinion that the sport of boxing just doesn't align with the Olympics' objective of greater advertising revenue.
Image Credit: Paris 2024 Olympics