Mary Kom – Truly Magnificient and the Best Boxer in the World

By Rashi Agarwal

India’s Mary Kom won a historic sixth gold in the World Championships this month, the mother-of-three doing, what no other woman boxer in the world has done or known before.

By claiming her sixth world title, Mary Kom became the most successful woman boxer in history. She beat Ukraine’s Hanna Okhota, 22 in a unanimous 5-0 verdict in the 48 kg category summit bout. Later, in an emotional expression she said that she had fulfilled her duty.

“After winning, she just lay down, weight of the world lifted from her shoulders,” said Indian team coach Raffaele Bergamasco. “For me, she is the Maradona of boxing,” he added. No one had asked her to push herself beyond limits to do this. But then she is as determined as can be. Speaking to reporters after her victory, Mary Kom said, “I would like to dedicate this win to my country.” Overwhelmed, Mary Kom broke down after coming out of the ring as she went around to greet the packed crowd and assembled officials. Wrapped in the tricolour, she thanked her fans for their “unstinted support”.

“Saaachinnn, Saachinnn”…that well known call from Indian sports fans for over 25 years now has made way for a new one. All of India shouted “Maaaaryyyy, Maaaary!” as the 35- year old punched her way to boxing immortality. She is rightfully called “Magnificent Mary”.