Taiwanese boxer Huang Hsiao-wen, ranked No. 1 in the World Boxing (WB) women's 54kg category, faced Chinese contender Zhao Xuan in the semifinals today. Their fighting styles were distinctly different. In the first round, Huang Hsiao-wen leveraged her height and reach advantage, steadily landing counter-punches, earning 10 points from all five judges.

As the second round began, Zhao Xuan's close-range attacks intensified, almost clinching Huang Hsiao-wen. Unexpectedly, the referee deemed Huang Hsiao-wen to be avoiding attacks and grappling with her opponent, deducting points from her. This left Huang Hsiao-wen with only a 3-2 lead after the first two rounds.

In the crucial third round, Huang Hsiao-wen regained her advantage, constantly finding openings to deliver counter-punches, ultimately securing a 4-1 victory on points.

Liu Tsung-tai told CNA reporters that this match provided valuable experience. "But I must commend Hsiao-wen; after being inexplicably penalized in the second round, she was still able to withstand the pressure, remain calm in the ring, and execute the planned tactics."

Liu Tsung-tai also mentioned that it might have been influenced by the morning matches of Kuo Yi-hsuan and Lin Yu-ting, where their opponents seemed to "charge to win." "So Hsiao-wen's opponent also followed suit, almost rushing into our embrace throughout the match, and the referee bought into it."

Huang Hsiao-wen has previously won one silver and two bronze medals at the Asian Championships in her boxing career. She is in excellent form this year and has successfully advanced to the championship match. Liu Tsung-tai emphasized, "Her current condition is really good, and her rhythm is also on point. We hope she can maintain this until the championship match."

According to the draw, Huang Hsiao-wen's opponent in the championship match will be Indian boxer Preeti Preeti. They previously met in the semifinals of the WB Year-End Tournament last year, where Huang Hsiao-wen, fighting with an injury, lost 0-4. (Editor: Chen Jen-hua) 1150406

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  • Source: CNA (Central News Agency)
  • Category: event