Arabel Rustemovski wins U17 bronze and receives spectacular welcome in Bitola
The young boxer earned bronze at the U17 European Championship after a 4-1 semifinal loss to British Charlie Kit.
Young Macedonian boxer Arabel Rustemovski returned home with a bronze medal after the U17 European Championship and received a festive welcome in Bitola. The podium finish is both a milestone in his budding career and a point of pride for the country.
Welcome in Bitola
Rustemovski reached the semifinals of the tournament held in Montenegro, where he was edged out by British boxer Charlie Kit with a 4-1 decision. Despite the loss in the semis, the result secured him one of the bronze medals awarded to semifinalists.
On his arrival in Bitola, Arabel was greeted amid celebration by his brothers, including his older brother Alen Rustemovski, as well as coaches, friends and family. The reception reflected local enthusiasm for his achievement and the wider belief that Macedonian boxing has gained another promising talent.
The medal adds to the Rustemovski family’s reputation in national boxing circles: Arabel is the younger brother of Alen Rustemovski, widely regarded as the country’s top boxer. The U17 bronze confirms Arabel’s status as an emerging prospect to watch.
Coaches at the reception highlighted the importance of international experience at youth level, saying the tournament in Montenegro will be a useful foundation for Arabel’s transition to higher age groups and tougher competitions.
The town’s celebration underlined local support for young athletes and offered a public recognition of a result that raised expectations for the future of Macedonian boxing.
Photo: press material from the event
