Japanese boxer Ryomei Tanaka guaranteed himself a medal in the men's 48 to 52-kg flyweight category on Tuesday when scored a quarterfinal win over Colombian Yuberjen Herney Martinez Rivas at the Tokyo Games.

The 27-year-old Tanaka defeated Martinez Rivas on a split decision at Kokugikan Arena, winning 4-1 on points to set up a meeting with Carlo Paalam of the Philippines in the semifinals on Thursday.

Japan's Ryomei Tanaka (blue) and Colombian Yuberjen Herney Martinez Rivas fight in the men's flyweight boxing quarterfinals at the Tokyo Olympics on Aug. 3, 2021, at Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo. (Kyodo)

Tanaka has earned at least a bronze medal on his Olympic debut as both semifinal losers are awarded the medal. Kiyoshi Tanabe was the last Japanese man to win an Olympic flyweight medal, taking bronze at the 1960 Rome Games.

Tanaka's win means Japan is now guaranteed to win at least three medals in the men's and women's boxing competitions in Tokyo, the most ever by the country at an Olympics.

Japan's Sena Irie takes on Nesthy Petecio of the Philippines in the women's under 54 to 57-kg featherweight gold medal bout later Tuesday.

Japan's Ryomei Tanaka (blue) hugs Colombian Yuberjen Herney Martinez Rivas after beating him in their flyweight boxing quarterfinals at the Tokyo Olympics on Aug. 3, 2021, at Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo. (Kyodo)