Fast food for Ali: Pak boxer cooked in two minutes flat

‘‘Yes, when I entered the ring it was in my mind that I was going to fight a Pakistani and maybe that brought out the best in me,’’ he added with a smile. ‘‘I am glad I have become the first Indian to defeat a Pakistani in the current Games,’’ he said.

Ali came out of the ring holding his aching shoulder. While hitting his opponent, Ali’s shoulder had rubbed the hard portion of the Pakistani’s gloves. But the joy of victory had overshadowed the fact that the Indian doctor had come to the ring without medicines. ‘‘I will give you some medicine when we reach the Games Village,’’ she coolly told Ali.

Incidentally, the doctor was still waiting for the shuttle bus at the venue when Ali reached the Village with his shoulder packed in ice. When pointed out that he was very aggressive from the word go, Ali said it was to impress the judges. ‘‘If they see a boxer starting well they get impressed and give points in your favour,’’ he said.

Soon after winning his bout Ali went to the stands to see the Filipino boxer Tanamore, who was fighting Zou Shiming of China. ‘‘I know fighting a south paw is a bit difficult but don’t worry I will do my best,’’ a confident Ali said.

Coach GS Sandhu was also confident of Ali’s good performance in the quarters. ‘‘He is a gold medal prospect. I am sure Ali will get one,’’ he said.