World Championships silver medalist Saweety Boora (75kg) put up a notable performance to progress into the pre-quarterfinals while Neeraj Phogat bowed out after a contentious verdict resulting in a mixed day for India in the Women’s World Boxing Championships at Ulan-Ude, Russia today. Saweety came out a better boxer landing punches with more accuracy compared to her opponent as she blanked Mongolia’s Myagmarjargal Munkhbat 5-0, even though the Mongolian tried to make a comeback in the dying minutes, but it was not enough to impress the judges.

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A mixed day for Indian boxers

Earlier in the day, India witnessed a major upset as Neeraj (57kg) had to endure a surprise loss through a split verdict of 2-3.
The India Open and Umakhanov Memorial International gold medalist put up a remarkable fight on debut; displayed superior technique and aggression compared to Jieru Qiao’s aimless punches. However, Neeraj failed to receive the judges' nod despite the Chinese pugilist getting a point revoked for foul play in Round 2. The Indian team had lodged a protest against the decision as per the latest AIBA guideline where a team is allowed to challenge two decisions in a tournament; the protest though was not accepted by the technical reviewer and the review plea was turned down.

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Saweety Boora's next challenge

Saweety will now face CWG Gold medallist and second-seeded Welsh boxer, Lauren Price on October 8. On Sunday former World champion and 5-times Asian gold medalist Sarita Devi (60kg) will take the ring opposite Natalia Shadrina of Russia while debutant Nandini (81kg) will be challenged by Germany’s Irina-Nicoletta Schonberger.

Rules of two unsuccessful protests

According to the rules, teams are entitled to two unsuccessful protests. The coaches are required to raise a yellow card within a minute of the bout getting over and follow it up by paying USD 1000 within half an hour to seek a review of any decision.The technical committee has the discretion to accept or reject a protest but once it chooses to accept, a decision is made only at the end of the day's session.

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