Hergie Bacyadan outclassed by top seed Li Qian in Olympic debut

Hergie Bacyadan bravely took the challenge but ultimately succumbed to top seed Li Qian of China in the Round of 16 of the women’s 75kg at the 2024 Paris Olympics on Wednesday, July 31, at North Paris Arena.

The 34-year-old Chinese, a two-time Olympic medalist, scored long jabs and quick combinations in taking unanimous 5-0 decision against the 29-year-old Filipina, who was making her Olympic debut.

The Igorot boxer tried to match up with the more seasoned Chinese boxer in the opening round, but Li was able to impose her will against the debutant, earning the nod from all five judges.

Bacyadan, a first-time Olympian, would connect combination shots against Li in the third round, also putting the Chinese bet on the ropes, but it proved too late as the latter secured the victory with a dominant performance.

The loss of Bacyadan came just hours after Olympic medal bet Eumir Marcial bombed out in the men’s light-heavyweight class.