How World Champion Fajliddin Erkinbov’s Defeat Shaped Ankush Pangal’s Final Triumph

Facing reigning world champion Fajliddin Erkinbov in the Asian Games semi‑final, Ankush Pangal entered the bout with cautious confidence. He avoided overconfidence, focusing instead on disciplined execution, and secured a 4‑1 victory over the Uzbek star. The win propelled him into the gold‑medal fight against Kim Min‑seong, who earlier fell to Erkinbov in the Asian Championships semi‑final. Ankush’s measured approach and belief in his preparation helped him clinch the final, fulfilling his goal of echoing his brother’s 2018 gold performance.