PARIS — Oleksandr Khyzhniak of Ukraine clinched the gold medal in the men’s 80kg boxing weight class at the Paris 2024 Olympics on August 7, 2024, with a hard-fought victory in a 3-2 split decision at Stade Roland-Garros.
Khyzhniak delivered an electrifying performance, displaying an aggressive and relentless style that kept his opponent, Nurbek Oralbay of Kazakhstan, on the defensive for most of the bout. The Ukrainian boxer’s strategic combination of body shots, uppercuts, and jabs effectively penetrated Oralbay’s defense, allowing him to secure a narrow victory.
Match Highlights:
Round 1: Khyzhniak initiated the bout with a barrage of punches, showcasing his attacking prowess. Oralbay managed to evade some of the initial onslaught but was under pressure throughout the round.
Round 2: The intensity continued as both fighters exchanged powerful blows. The round was closely contested, with each boxer scoring points with their respective attacks.
Round 3: Khyzhniak’s sustained aggression began to take its toll on Oralbay. His uppercuts and body shots landed with increasing effectiveness, eventually breaking through Oralbay’s defense.
Despite Oralbay’s valiant efforts, including a notable display of resilience and courage, Khyzhniak’s superior technique and tenacity earned him the edge. The judges’ decision reflected the close nature of the bout, but there was no doubt about the gold medalist.
Post-Match Reactions:
Khyzhniak expressed his elation and sense of fulfillment, saying, “I’m ecstatic. Since I was a boy, I’ve dreamed of being on this step of the podium. It’s a gold medal for Ukraine.” This victory marked a significant redemption for Khyzhniak, who had previously won a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
Medal Standings:
Gold: Oleksandr Khyzhniak (Ukraine)
Silver: Nurbek Oralbay (Kazakhstan)
Bronze: Cristian Javier Pinales (Dominican Republic) and Arlen Lopez Cardona (Cuba)
Khyzhniak’s victory was a highlight of the boxing events in Paris, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination. The match was a thrilling conclusion to the men’s 80kg weight class competition and a proud moment for Ukrainian sports.
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