Reports have emerged that the Russian boxer who was awarded victory over Michael Conlan will not be able to fight in his semi-final bout, writes Stephen Barry.
Vladimir Nikitin’s extensive facial injuries, sustained against Conlan, could force him to concede a walkover in his fight tomorrow.
That’s according to freelance writer and boxing coach Sarah Deming, who said that Billy Walsh, head coach of Team USA’s boxers, does not expect a fight tomorrow.
Here's a scoop. US Head coach Billy Walsh says Shakur Stevenson advances on W/o tomorrow. Nikitin's face a mess after Conlan @StiffJab
— sarahdeming (@sarahdeming) August 17, 2016
That would not mean a reprive for Conlan’s medal hopes, however, with USA teenager Shakur Stevenson set for a walkover into the gold medal final.
That guarantees Shakur Stevenson a gold or silver medal
— sarahdeming (@sarahdeming) August 17, 2016
The news is yet to be officially confirmed by the Russian camp, with AIBA telling The Associated Press’ Greg Beacham that he’ll have until the weigh-in in the morning to decide.
AIBA says Vladimir Nikitin has NOT told them he'll withdraw from his bout with Shakur Stevenson. The AM weigh-in is when he has to decide.
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) August 17, 2016
Guy who Mick battered has had to withdraw because of the beating he took, this just gets worse! @AIBA_Boxing
— Paddy Barnes (@paddyb_ireland) August 17, 2016
Conlan, for his part, retweeted the news before posting a picture of him enjoying the Rio sun with his family.
Life's a beach 😎 #FamilyFirst pic.twitter.com/G10NzqjAwh
— Michael Conlan (@mickconlan11) August 17, 2016
