Gold medalist Zou Shiming(L2) of China reacts on the podium at the awarding ceremony of Men's Light Fly(48kg) of Beijing 2008 Olympic Games boxing event at Workers' Gymnasium in Beijing, China, Aug. 24, 2008.(Xinhua Photo)

China's Zou Shiming won China's first boxing gold today by defeating Mongolia's Serdamba Purevdorj in the final of the light-flyweight class. Zou hit Purevdorj with a combo of punches in the first round, earning one point.

The bout ended abruptly in the second round with Purevdorj retiring due to a shoulder injury that he suffered in his bout against Yampier Hernandez G of Cuba.

"When I was fighting today I felt a lot of pain in my shoulder and I decided not to force myself," said Purevdorj.

Zou was ecstatic at being able to better the bronze medal that he won at Athens 2004.

"I am very happy because I won the first Boxing gold medal for my country," said Zou after winning the gold medal.

"I wanted to give the spectators a wonderful show, but I did not expect that my opponent would get injured. However, the gold medal is the most important thing."

Editor: Yan