Eumir Marcial’s medal hopes dashed in shocking exit from Paris Olympics

Eumir Marcial’s quest for a second Olympic medal came to an unexpected end as he bowed out of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The Tokyo 2020 bronze medalist faced Uzbekistan’s Turabek Khabibullaev in the round of 16 of the men’s 80kg boxing competition at the North Paris Arena on Tuesday, July 30 (Wednesday, July 31, Manila time), where he was defeated by unanimous decision.

Video from the YouTube Channel of One Sports

Marcial, a top medal hopeful for the Philippines, was seen as a strong contender coming into the Games. However, Khabibullaev, standing at 6-foot-1, used his height and reach advantage to keep Marcial at bay. The Uzbek boxer dominated the early rounds, securing a shutout in the first round and continuing his strong performance into the second, which set the tone for the bout.

Despite his experience and previous Olympic success, Marcial struggled to penetrate Khabibullaev’s solid defense. The 28-year-old southpaw from Zamboanga City attempted to adjust by being more aggressive in the second round, but Khabibullaev’s tactical approach and effective use of his jab kept Marcial from gaining the upper hand. The judges scored the bout 30-27, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, all in favor of Khabibullaev.

Marcial, who had to compete in the 80kg division after his original weight class of 75kg was removed from the Paris Olympics program, showed resilience and determination but ultimately could not overcome the challenge posed by the younger, taller Khabibullaev. This defeat marked a disappointing end to Marcial’s campaign, especially after his impressive run to the bronze medal in Tokyo.

With Marcial’s elimination, the Philippines’ hopes for an Olympic boxing gold medal rest on the remaining athletes in the competition. Marcial’s journey to the Paris Games included a notable qualification through the Asian Games, where he secured his spot by reaching the finals, only to fall to China’s Tuohetaerbieke Tanglatihan.

As the 2024 Paris Olympics continue, the Filipino boxing community and fans will rally behind the remaining boxers, Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, and Hergie Bacyadan, hoping to achieve the country’s long-awaited Olympic boxing gold.

Marcial’s unexpected early exit serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and challenges of Olympic competition.