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Carlo PaalamFilipino boxer
Date of Birth: 16.07.1998
Country:  Philippines |
Content:
Early Life
Carlo Paalam was born on July 16, 1998, in Bukidnon. His family later moved to Balilihan, Eastern Misamis. After his parents' failed marriage, Paalam and his relatives left Balilihan for Cagayan de Oro in search of better opportunities. There, Paalam worked as a garbage collector in a local dumpsite.
Introduction to Boxing
Paalam's boxing journey began at a local tournament called "Boxing in the Park." He won his first fight at the age of 7 and used his winnings to buy rice for his family.
Amateur Career
Paalam joined the Cagayan de Oro boxing training program in 2009. He made his international debut in 2013 and won bronze medals at the 2016 AIBA Youth World and Asian Championships. He also won a bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games and a gold medal at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.
Olympic Glory
Paalam qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics through the IOC-BTF rankings. He defeated several top boxers, including the reigning Olympic champion Shahobidin Zoirov of Uzbekistan, to reach the semifinals. In the semifinals, Paalam defeated Riomeon Tanaka of Japan to advance to the gold medal match.
Olympic Medalist
In the gold medal match, Paalam faced Galal Yafai of Great Britain. He ultimately lost to Yafai but earned a silver medal for his impressive performance, making him the first Filipino boxer to win an Olympic medal since 2008.
Legacy
Carlo Paalam's Olympic silver medal is a testament to his hard work, determination, and talent. He is a source of inspiration for young Filipinos and a symbol of the country's rising boxing prowess.
