After defeating four of the 27 contestants from different countries, Zeenat Ferdous fought for the best. The American expatriate boxer won gold in the elite 48 to 50 kg light flyweight category after defeating the Ethiopian boxer in the final.
Zeenat defeated Gaiza Bethelhem Gezahen in the final of the Mandela African Boxing Cup in South Africa. In the final, Zeenat received 10 out of 10 points from four of the five judges, and 9 points from the others.
Zeenat will participate in the selection of the Paris Olympics to be held in Thailand next month. General Secretary of Bangladesh Boxing Federation Mazharul Islam Tuhin told bdnews24.com that they are hoping for good things about Zeenat in the selection of Thailand.
“The tournament in South Africa saw 27 competitors from different countries take part in this event. After defeating four people to reach the finals, Zeenat became the champion after defeating the Ethiopian competitor.
“Zinat will go to Thailand on 21st of next month, there will be Olympic qualifying tournament from 25th. If you stay in the top four, you will have a chance to play. Besides, if Salim Hossain also gets a wild card, then it is good.”
Zeenat’s parents’ house is Shyamoli in Dhaka. Although he grew up in the United States, Mazharul saw a special pull towards his motherland in this boxer.
“He is quite sincere towards the country. I have seen many expatriate players, but his love for the country is different. I have seen that in very few players.”
Zeenat climbed into the ring wearing the red-green flag in the last Asian Games as well. He got through the first round with a ‘bye’ but lost in the second round against a Mongolian competitor.
