On the fifth day of the 2024 Boxing 2nd World Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand, Aidan Walsh, the bronze medallist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, continued his impressive comeback with a win over Youcef Yaiche. The 27-year-old from Northern Ireland defeated Yaiche in their men’s 71kg bout with a close 4-1 split decision to advance to the last-16.
After retiring from boxing last year due to mental health issues, Walsh returned to the sport with the goal of competing at the Olympic Games in Paris 2024. His performance in the first World Qualifier in Italy was promising, and he continued to showcase his skills and determination in Thailand.
Brazil’s Wanderson de Oliveira also had a standout performance on Day 5, securing a victory over Zambia’s Steven Zimba at 71kg with a unanimous 5-0 win. Oliveira had defeated Walsh in their previous bout, but this time it was Walsh who emerged victorious.
Africa had some good news as well as Ghanian lightweight champion Joseph Commey won his bout against Kabengela Ntumba from the Democratic Republic of Congo with a close 3-2 split decision at 63.5kg. Commey is looking forward to competing on home soil at Paris 2024.
The tournament showcased some exciting talent and competitive bouts as boxers from around the world vied for a spot at Paris 2024 Olympics. With only one more day left before the finals, it is anyone’s game as boxers continue to fight for their dreams of Olympic glory.