Javier Ibanez secured a quarterfinal spot at the European Boxing Championships in Sofia, while Zlatislava Chukanova was eliminated in a split decision.

Bulgarian boxer Javier Ibanez reached the quarterfinals of the European Boxing Championships in Sofia after a unanimous decision victory in the 55 kg category. Competing at the Asics Arena, the Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medalist defeated Italy's Tommaso Sciacca 5-0. Meanwhile, Zlatislava Chukanova was eliminated in the 51 kg category following a 3-2 split decision loss to Ireland's Daina Moorehouse.

Ibanez Advances to Quarterfinals

Javier Ibanez dominated all three rounds against Tommaso Sciacca to secure his place in the top five of the tournament. The judges scored the bout 30:27, 30:27, 29:28, 29:28, and 29:28 in favor of the Bulgarian. Ibanez is set to face England's Abdul Burton in the quarterfinals on September 22.

Chukanova Eliminated in Close Bout

Zlatislava Chukanova, a European vice-champion, faced a narrow 3-2 defeat against Daina Moorehouse. Despite landing effective combinations and recording a knockdown in the third round, Chukanova was hindered by what was described as the opponent's unclean tactics. The judges' scorecards were 29:28, 29:28, 27:30, 28:29, and 29:28.

Upcoming Bulgarian Bouts

The tournament schedule continues with Stanimira Petrova, a four-time European gold medalist, returning to the ring after a two-year hiatus to face Slovakia's Bibiana Lovasova. Additionally, Blagovest Nedelchev is scheduled to compete in the 70 kg category against Italy's Gabriele Rontani at approximately 8:45 p.m.