Lovlina Borgohain says 'right moves must be made' to keep boxing in LA 2028

NEW DELHI: Indian boxer Lovlina Borgohain on Sunday emphasized on importance of boxing's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics amid sport's uncertain future at the Games.
Boxing was initially excluded from the LA2028 program. However, a final decision is still pending.
Borgohain recently joined the Athletes Commission of the newly established Asian unit of World Boxing.
"It's a huge privilege to be on this committee as India will now have a voice in decision making," said Lovlina, pointing out that boxing's technicalities, "especially scoring and judging" needed closer and impartial introspection.
"Till now, India was just an ordinary member with very little chance to raise a protest or point out a flaw in the system. That is going to change now since we will have seven positions in the Asian body.
"That's a big plus for athletes who want to perform their best and win an Olympic medal," said Lovlina, adding that "all the right moves must be made to keep boxing in the LA 2028 programme."
The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist aims for her third Olympic appearance in Los Angeles, should boxing be included. She plans to approach her training strategically.
Borgohain reflected on her previous Olympic experiences: winning bronze in Tokyo and not medaling in Paris. She is looking forward to the Los Angeles Games.
"Tokyo was during COVID times. Paris was a real learning curve. I did my best and have no regrets that I could not win a medal. For every athlete, there are lessons to be learnt and I want to be wiser leading into LA," Lovlina said.
She was accompanied by Nayanmoni Saikia, a decorated Indian lawn bowler and Arjuna Awardee.
Both athletes participated in the Fit India Sundays on Cycle mission. They also promoted the Union Sports Ministry's "no drugs" campaign.
Borgohain, who will be 31 during the LA Olympics, expressed confidence in her future performance. She believes she will be better equipped with experience and strength.
"But I am not going to rush my preparations. LA is a long way off and proper weight and injury management will be part of my core plans. Right now, I am not looking beyond the upcoming National Games in Uttarakhand and to do well for Assam is uppermost in my mind," said Lovlina.
With at least three medals, including a gold in the 2023 world championship, Lovlina said 2025 would be a challenging year with the world championships on the cards.
"It will be a target to play the World Boxing Cup Final in India later in 2025," she added.