Team GB guaranteed boxing medal as Adams makes semis

Team GB are guaranteed a medal in the inaugural Olympic women's boxing tournament after Nicola Adams reached the semi-finals of the 51kg or flyweight class. The 29 year old from Leeds overcame Stoyka Petrova of Bulgaria 16-7 on Monday and is certain to collect a medal because the sport awards bronzes to both semi-finalists. Adams even managed to pay tribute during her fight to her hero  Muhammad Ali. "I had to get an Ali shuffle in there. It had to be done. I have watched so many of his videos I thought I'd sneak a cheeky one in." "I have got the bronze medal in my back pocket and I just want a nicer colour now." "It's a great feeling. I just felt really good out there and I'd like to thank all the supporters, my friends and family, and the fans. The crowd and the cheering for all the boxers has been marvellous." "We weren't sure what the atmosphere of the crowd would be like because it is the first time women have competed but we have been getting the same kind of cheers as the men, so that's fantastic." Adams could become the first ever women's boxing gold medallist as her class will be the first to be contested in Thursday's women's finals. Before then, she must face Chungneijang Mery Kom Hmangte in the semi-finals. "She is a good opponent," Adams said. "She is five time world champion and you have to be special to do that. I am hoping when we box that I'll have that bit extra." "I beat her in the quarters in the worlds this year by a couple of points. It will be a close match, a tough match but I am going to stay focused."