BRAVE ISHAIASH MISSES OUT ON OLYMPIC SEMI-FINAL

Brave boxer Hussein Ishaiash has missed out on an historic semi-final spot at the Olympic Games after losing to French World Champion Tony Yoka, 24, in Rio de Janeiro.

Ishaiash, 21, is 20cm shorter and 10kg lighter in weight than the enormous Frenchman who towered over him and put on a strong and measured display.

Despite Ishaiash’s huge heart and courage, it was the Yoka’s power and style that won the judges’ verdict who gave the Frenchman a unanimous decision.

“I did my best for Jordan and all Jordanians,” said a disappointed Ishaiash. “I was the underdog but I gave everything I had. He is a world champion so to it was always going to be difficult. He is a great champion and I wish him well.

“I am exhausted mentally and physically. I really threw everything I could into that fight. I am still young and learning all the time. I will be back for Tokyo 2020 with more experience.”

It was three rounds of the most incredible boxing that typified what the Olympics is all about.

Round One

Very tight opening round. Yoka towers over Ishaiash but the Jordanian chases the Frenchman for much of the round. Judges go with the world champion

Round Two

Ishaiash again not scared of coming forward against the giant Yoka who does well to jab him away and keep scoring. Judges again go with the Frenchman who lands a punch after the bell much to the crowd’s disgust.

Round Three

Brilliant stuff from Ishaiash who catches the Frenchman with a big strike to give him hope of the knock out he needs to win. But the Frenchman stays on his feet to secure the win. Somehow the judges gave that round to Yoka also.

Yoka will box in the semi-finals on Friday.