World Silver-medallist Amit Panghal (52kg) has been ranked number one by the IOC’s Boxing Task Force ahead of next month’s Olympic Qualifiers, making him the first Indian pugilist in over a decade to achieve the global top position in his category.
In 2009, Olympic Bronze-medallist Vijender Singh did it for the first time after he opened India’s account at the world championships with a Bronze in the 75kg division.
The 24-year-old Panghal holds the numero uno position with 420 points, according to the list released by the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Boxing Task Force, which is in charge of administering the sport right now.
“It is a great feeling and obviously means a lot to me because it will help me in being seeded at the qualifiers. Being world No 1 also gives you a renewed sense of confidence,” Panghal said.
“I hope to secure an Olympic spot in the first qualifier itself,” added the diminutive boxer from Rohtak.
In the women’s rankings, celebrated six-time world champion M C Mary Kom occupies the fifth spot in the 51kg category. Mary Kom has 225 points.
However, the best-placed Indian among women boxers is Lovlina Borgohain, who holds the third position in the 69kg division.