Carlo Paalam is carrying more than his gloves into the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.

The Tokyo Olympics silver medalist is determined to finally end the Philippines’ 16-year wait for an Asiad boxing gold medal when he steps into the ring in the men’s 55-kilogram division.

But despite the weight of expectations, Paalam said he feels no pressure — only hunger for another chance to deliver a gold for the country.

“I don’t feel pressure, sir. I’m the one who will fight at the top of the ring. I will do my best and I will listen to my coaches,” Paalam said.

“I will do my best because after this, there’s nothing to wait for. You have to wait for four years. You have to pour everything here.”

The 28-year-old from Cagayan de Oro City will headline a lean boxing delegation that also includes Olympic bronze medalists Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas, along with Weljon Mindoro, Junmilardo Ogayre, Norlan Petecio and Riza Pasuit.

Paalam came agonizingly close to a medal in the previous Asian Games in Hangzhou in 2023, bowing to eventual champion Abdumalik Khalokov of Uzbekistan in the quarterfinals of the men’s 57kg division.

Now dropping to 55kg, Paalam said he has no concerns about the adjustment, crediting the national coaching staff for carefully mapping out his preparation.

“We’re just based on our program. We’re following the programs of our coaches,” Paalam said.

“We’re adjusting our weight. Actually, I’ve adapted to the style here.”

Boxing will be held at the Nishio City General Gymnasium from 21 September to 2 October.