Asian Games gold medal-winning boxer Amit Panghal has his target set --- to represent India and attain a podium finish at the 2020 Olympics in the 52 kg weight category.
To achieve this big dream in a higher weight class than he had competed in at the Asian Games in Jakarta and Palembang in Indonesia, he intends to work on his strength and endurance.
"My aim is to represent India at the Olympics, like any other athlete. Not thought about professional boxing as the main target is the 2020 Olympics and I will try to come back with a medal in the 52 kg category," Panghal said Wednesday.
He was speaking to reporters here on the sidelines of an event where Glanbia launched a new nutrition product.
Last month, Panghal became only the eighth Indian boxer to claim a gold medal in Asian Games history with a stunning tactical win over reigning Olympic and Asian Champion Hasanboy Dusmatov in the summit clash of the 49 kg.
"Yes it will be tough going ahead as I am going to 52 kg and the boxers in this category will be more powerful and have a better reach. We will practice for 52 kg. I am working on increasing my strength and endurance," added the 22-year-old Armyman, who was the only Indian boxer to win a gold medal in this years Asian Games.
So, who are the boxers who Panghal thinks can pose him a tough challenge at the world level?