World Championship silver medalist Amit Panghal has got a big prize before the Olympics. In 52 kg, Amit has been given the number one ranking by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) boxing workforce ahead of next month's Olympic qualifier. Now Panghal has become the first Indian boxer to achieve the top global ranking in this category in more than a decade. Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh became the first Indian boxer to achieve the top ranking in 2009 when he also opened India's account with a bronze medal in the 75kg category of the World Championships.
According to the list released by the boxing workforce, 24-year-old Panghal is at the top spot with 420 points. The same workforce is currently conducting boxing for the Olympic Games. The Asian Olympic qualifiers are to be held in Amman, Jordan next month. Panghal told PTI that it is a great feeling and of course it means a lot to me as it will help me to get preference in the qualifier. Being the world's number one player also boosts your confidence.
The IOC workforce will conduct the Olympic qualifier this year and then the main event in Tokyo as the International Boxing Association (AIBA) is currently suspended due to alleged financial and administrative mismanagement. Three-time Commonwealth Games veteran Manoj Kumar is 71st in the 69kg category while Ashish is at 22nd. Two-time silver medalist Sonia Chahal of the World and Asian Championships is ranked 10th in the women's 57kg category.
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