Nattanicha fights back to reach Asian Games boxing final

AICHI, Japan — On the 29th of September, 2026, Thai-New Zealand boxer Nattanicha Jongprongklang staged an impressive comeback to defeat Japan’s Tsukimi Namiki and advance to the women’s 54kg final at the 2026 Asian Games held in Japan. Referred to as Focus, Nattanicha is the sole remaining Thai amateur boxer in the competition. She faced off against host nation boxer Namiki in the semifinal bout at Nishio Gymnasium on the 29th of September.

Utilizing her height and reach advantage, Nattanicha applied pressure on Namiki from the first bell. Despite landing the clearer punches, she trailed 2–3 on the judges' scorecards after the first round. Continuing her assault, Nattanicha scored several clean shots in the second round, but still lagged behind 1–4 on the cards. With her spot in the final hanging in the balance, Nattanicha knew she had to press the pace in the third round and earn as many points as possible.

Namiki opted to maintain distance and counter, but Nattanicha delivered the much-needed comeback. After three rounds, Nattanicha emerged victorious with a 3–2 split decision, earning her a spot in the Asian Games final and a shot at the gold medal.