Marlen Esparaza Makes History

Marlen Esparza 23, 112 lbs made history by becoming the first American to win an Olympic bout in women’s boxing. Esparza of the United States defeated Karlha Magliocco of Venezuela by a score of 24 to 16 in the Flyweight Quarterfinals. On Wednesday Esparza will face Ren Cancan, China. Cancan is a 3 time World Champion and has a win over Esparza. The winner will advance to the Gold Medal fight on Friday.

Claressa Shields of the United States, only 17, 165lbs won her middleweight quarterfinal fight against Anna Laurell from Sweden. Shields will face Marina Volnova from Kazakhstan on Wednesday. The winner will advance to the gold medal fight on Friday. Esparza and Shields guaranteed themselves at least a bronze medal by winning their quarterfinals bout.