SELANGOR: Sarawak boxer Riq Roland overcame a strong early challenge from host favourite Rubesh Chander Sivachandran to book his place in the light welterweight (63.5kg) semi-finals at the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) XXII on Monday (Aug 18).
Competing at Dewan Tun Abdullah Mohamad Salleh, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Riq produced a composed display to secure a unanimous 30-27 points victory after three rounds.
After coming under sustained pressure in the opening two rounds, the Sarawakian responded with a strong finish to seize control of the contest and seal his place in the last four.
Team manager Datuk Johnny Ting Su King praised Riq’s resilience, saying the comeback highlighted the youngster’s character.
“I’m very happy with his victory, which earned him a place in the semi-finals.
“We were impressed by his fighting spirit, especially the way he handled the pressure,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
Riq will return to the ring on Friday (Aug 21), with victory guaranteeing at least a silver medal and a place in the final.
“We know the semi-final will be more intense. However, I believe he is capable of putting on an even better performance,” Johnny said.
