Byun Jung-il

Byun Jung-il (born 16 November 1968 in Seoul) is a former South Korean boxer.

Amateur career

Byun is perhaps best known for protesting against a decision at the 1988 Seoul Olympics by refusing to leave the ring after losing a controversial 4-1 decision in the bantamweight competition. He was penalized for head-butting his competitor, Aleksandar Hristov of Bulgaria. He sat by himself in the ring for over an hour. Eventually, match officials turned the lights out and left him in darkness.

Olympic results

• Defeated Jean-Marc Augustin (France) 5-0
• Lost to Aleksandar Hristov (Bulgaria) 1-4

• http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1967798_2080350,00.html

Professional career

Byun turned pro in 1990 and in 1993 defeated Victor Rabanales for the WBC bantamweight title in only his 9th fight by decision. He lost the belt later that year to Yasuei Yakushiji, and lost a rematch to Yakushiji the following year. He retired after the loss.