Dilshod abdumurodov

Strandja Memorial Boxing Tournament: Indian boxer Akash Gorkha (60kg) went down fighting against Dilshod Abdumurodov of Uzbekistan on opening day of the 75th Strandja Memorial Tournament in Sofia, Bulgaria on Sunday.

In an intense three-round battle to secure a place in the quarterfinals, Akash began the bout aggressively, testing his opponent in the initial minutes. Dilshod showed patience throughout the bout and used counterattacks by capitalizing on Akash’s shortcomings. The Indian pugilist came with positive intent in the second and third rounds, forcing a few decisions in his favour but it wasn't enough as Dilshod won the bout with a 4-1 split decision. The national champion, Jugnoo (86kg) will be in action later on Sunday night as he will go up against Kocharian Ashot of Ukraine in his round of 16 clash.

On Monday, all six women boxers will start the campaign with their respective Round of 16 clashes.