DEFEAT FOR AL KESBEH IN RIO

DEFEAT FOR AL KESBEH IN RIO

Obada Al Kesbeh has lost his fight at the Olympic Games, but won over the fans with a brave attacking performance against Canada’s Arthur Biyarslanov in the 64kg light welterweight category.

Al Kesbeh chased southpaw Biyarslanov, known as the Chechen Wolf, about the ring for most of the fight, but lost on a unanimous verdict by the judges who went for the more composed and defensive fighter.

“I am devastated to have lost, I wanted to win for everyone back in Jordan but it wasn’t to be. I am really upset as I felt I did well and landed more punches,” said the 22-year-old, Al Kesbeh. “It was a very tough fight. I had to step up a level but I thought I did enough

“I would like to thank everyone back home for the support.”

Kesbeh entered the ring full of confidence, moving to the music while his opponent was very composed and stern faced.

Round One

Obada definitely the more aggressive fighter throwing some big right hands and showing fast feet, but Arthur remained composed in a close first round that went in favour of the Canadian.

Round Two

In a scrappy second round, Kesbeh continued to be the more forceful fighter with the Canadian keeping him at arm’s length with measured jabs and counters. The judges going with Arthur once again.

Round Three

Needing a knock out to win, Obada went in search chasing the opponent about the ring but again the Canadian was composed and kept him at bay with scoring shots to secure the confidence of the judges.

Next up for the Canadian is No. 3 ranked Artem Harutyunyan, 26, of Germany on Sunday evening. Harutyunyan, known as ‘The Original’, won bronze in the 2013 European Championships and has since boxed professionally.