Journalism of Courage
Six-time world champion M C Mary Kom (51kg category) defeated Nikhat Zareen in an intense trial bout on Saturday to make the Indian team for next year's Olympic qualifiers in China. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
In a bout which had very few clear punches, Mary Kom prevailed 9-1 to make the squad, but tension was palpable inside the boxing hall owing to the bitter row triggered by Zareen's public demand for a trial. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
Words were exchanged between the boxers during the bout and outside the ring, a few representatives from Zareen's home state Telangana's boxing association cried foul once the result was declared. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
"I was a bit angry. There is no doubt. But it's all done now. I have moved on. All I say is that talk once you perform not before that. Everyone can see what you do in the ring," Mary Kom told PTI after the bout. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
Mary Kom did not respond to Zareen's attempt at hugging her after the bout. "They call it clinching in our sport," was her sharp retort on being asked about it. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
Boxing Federation of India President Ajay Singh had to step in to control the situation after AP Reddy, claiming to represent the Telangana Boxing Association vociferously protested the decision. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
Bitterness dominated the buildup to the bout after it was insinuated that the onus was on Mary Kom to agree for the trial even though it was a call that the federation had to take. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
Mary Kom was visibly pumped up at the end of the bout in which she impressed with her composure. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
Mary Kom's perfect story continues despite her being at the top for almost two decades now. Her journey to the top began with gold at the inaugural World Championships for women in 2002, adding seven more to the list (six golds, one silver, one bronze) which are the most by any boxer (male or female) at the tournament. She also won a bronze at London Olympics, the first time that women's boxing was a part of the Games, and has two Asian Games and a Commonwealth Games gold in her kitty. (Source: Tashi Tobgyal)
