Ankush Panghal: Ankush Panghal Secures India’s First Boxing Medal at Asian Games

Ankush Panghal: India has secured its first boxing medal at the 2026 Asian Games after Ankush Panghal produced a convincing win in the men’s 80kg quarterfinal. The Indian boxer defeated Tajikistan’s Nekruz Salimov 5-0 on Sunday to move into the semifinals.

Panghal took control of the bout early and kept Salimov under pressure through the opening rounds. The Indian managed to build a clear advantage before the final round and then boxed with greater caution to protect his lead.

Salimov tried to increase the pace towards the end and landed a few punches, but it was not enough to change the result. All five judges went in favour of Panghal, giving him a 5-0 unanimous decision and a place in the last four.

The result guarantees Panghal at least a bronze medal, making the achievement particularly significant as he is competing at the Asian Games for the first time. He had already impressed in his earlier bouts and continued that run against the experienced Tajik boxer.

Panghal had reached the quarterfinals after beating Bahrain’s Hamsa Vogel by another 5-0 unanimous decision in the round of 16. That victory had left him just one win away from securing a medal in his maiden Asian Games appearance.

The Indian boxer entered the Asian Games with strong momentum after winning gold at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. His progress in Nagoya has now added another major achievement to his international career.

With the quarterfinal hurdle cleared, Panghal will now prepare for the semifinal. His latest victory has already ensured India a podium finish in boxing, while the next bout will determine whether he can move into the gold medal contest.

The 80kg competition is being held at the Nishio Gymnasium as part of the boxing programme at the Aichi Nagoya Asian Games. Panghal’s performance has given the Indian contingent another reason to celebrate as the boxing events move towards the medal rounds.