Emirati boxer Sultan Al Nuaimi achieved a historic feat at the 19th Asian Games in China this Monday.
Competing in the preliminary round (round of 32) of the men’s 51kg division, which is an Olympic event that promises a spot in the Paris 2024 Games for the winner, Al Nuaimi showcased outstanding skill, achieving a second-round knockout against Vanesy Heuangthisouan from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
This marks the first-ever victory for a UAE boxer at the Asian Games.
This significant achievement came a day after UAE judo athletes Bishrelt Khorloodoi and Narmandakh Bayanmunkh secured the nation’s debut medals at the ongoing Games. Khorloodoi secured a silver medal in the women’s 52kg division, while Bayanmunkh earned bronze in the men’s 66kg event the previous Sunday.
Al Nuaimi, however, had to clear a medical check in Hangzhou due to a cut on his forehead, sustained during a bout against Tanzania’s Jemsi Kibazange in Abu Dhabi on September 9. “The injury healed well and I was approved for Monday’s match,” shared Al Nuaimi with Khaleej Times.
He added, “Despite the weight of expectations when representing your country, my main focus was my opponent. While he was a formidable competitor, I managed to take control early on, ending the match in the second round.” The Ajman-based undefeated boxer emphasized the significance of his win as a milestone for UAE sports.
Al Nuaimi is now preparing for his next match against a Pakistani contender on September 28. He trains under the guidance of Ahmed Seddiqi at Dubai’s Round 10 Gym in Al Quoz, to whom he credits much of his success, along with the continuous support from the people of UAE.
Previously a policeman, Al Nuaimi transitioned to boxing and has remained undefeated in his 10-match career, starting with a win against Indonesia’s Charles Latuperissa in Dubai in 2019.
Additionally, UAE fighters Nawwaf Al Zahmi (57kg), Husain Al Kandari (71kg), and Mohamed Al Hefeiti (92kg) are also participating, aiming to shine at the Asian Games in China.
