India has a rich history in combat sports like boxing and wrestling, having won multiple medals in these disciplines at both the Olympic Games and World Championships. However, 2024 was a sub-par year for India, with only one athlete winning a medal at the Olympic Games across all combat sports, while several medal favorites exited early in the competition. Despite this, there were a few high-quality bouts (aligned to the Olympic umbrella) in these sports this year, featuring both narrow misses and upset victories. The Bridge highlights five of the most competitive and thrilling combat sports matches of 2024. Vinesh Phogat Vs Yui Susaki (JPN) – Paris Olympics One of the most exciting and talked-about bouts in combat sports this year occurred at the Paris Olympics, where Indian legend Vinesh Phogat faced defending champion Yui Susaki of Japan. Susaki was the overwhelming favorite to win the match and the competition, but the Indian maestro had other plans. She shattered Susaki’s formidable record of 82 consecutive wins on the international circuit. The match began with Susaki …