The Indian boxing legend is now eyeing a step towards a professional boxing career. 43-year-old Mary Kom, the first Indian woman boxer to win an Olympic medal, aims for a new start. She won a bronze medal in the 2012 London Games and has now surpassed her age eligibility to compete in amateur-level events.
On Sunday, March 29, the Olympic bronze medallist and six-time world champion said she is considering moving into professional boxing. One of the greatest amateur boxers of her time, revealed her interest during the Sunday on Cycle event.
“Although I reached a stage where age restrictions prevented me from competing further in amateur boxing for the country, a new opportunity has surfaced in Professional Boxing,” she said.
Kom added that she continues to commit to the grassroots development through her academy in Manipur.
“Personally, I am very involved with my academy. I travel back and forth quite often, sometimes it becomes difficult due to the current situation in Manipur; things can get tough there. However, I remain deeply committed. Even when I can’t be there physically, I manage and oversee the academy through phone calls. My dream is to stay fit for as long as I can, regardless of age,” she added.
India is aiming to host major global events including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2036 Olympics. Kom meanwhile stressed the importance of sport in fostering international recognition. She went on to praise the government’s efforts through initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India Movement.
“Sports development is essential. Without sports, it is difficult for a country to build a global reputation. Sports are what propel a nation forward. While we shouldn’t compare it directly to the scale of the IPL yet, boxing infrastructure has improved significantly, and the government has introduced fantastic facilities through movements like Khelo India and Fit India.”
The Olympic medallist also noted the highlight being given to the tribal youths in national programmes. Chhattisgarh is one key to the development of this initiative.
“Regarding the Tribal Games in Chhattisgarh previously, these were localised, but now the government is elevating them to a national level under the Khelo India banner. In the past, there wasn’t enough awareness regarding tribal sports talent. But now, with seven disciplines currently active in Chhattisgarh, that is changing,” she concluded.
