Armenian Boxer Hakob Sharbatyan Becomes European U17 Champion

Armenian boxer Hakob Sharbatyan won gold at the European U17 Boxing Championships on Sunday, October 11, defeating Romania’s Alexandru Butan in a closely contested final in Budva, Montenegro.

Competing in the 50-kilogram division, Sharbatyan claimed the European title after three of the five judges awarded him the victory in a 3-2 split decision. Overcome with emotion, he dropped to his knees in the ring as the result was announced.

The Armenian boxer had advanced to the final with a commanding 5-0 victory over Poland’s Piotr Dwojacki in the semifinals, knocking his opponent down in the second round. He previously defeated Ukraine’s Makar Honchar 4-1 in the quarterfinals.

Sharbatyan is among three Armenian boxers to secure medals at this year’s championships. Romik Harutyunyan also reached the final in the 66-kilogram division, while Eduard Karamyan earned bronze in the 60-kilogram category.

Armenia sent 16 boxers — 13 boys and three girls — to the European U17 Championships, which brought together competitors from approximately 40 countries.

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