Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom, widely known simply as Mary Kom, is a legendary Indian boxer whose story inspires millions across the globe. From humble beginnings in a small village in Manipur, India, she rose to become a six-time World Amateur Boxing Champion and the only boxer, male or female, to have won eight World Championship medals. Here are the top 10 interesting facts about Mary Kom that highlight her incredible journey and remarkable achievements.
1. Record Six-Time World Amateur Boxing Champion
Mary Kom is the only woman boxer in the world to have won the World Amateur Boxing Championship six times, a feat that exemplifies her dominance in the ring across multiple years. She is also the only female boxer to have won a medal at each of the first seven World Championships, showcasing consistent excellence at the global level.
2. Olympic Medalist at London 2012
Mary Kom made history by becoming the first Indian woman boxer to qualify for the Olympics. At the 2012 London Olympics, she competed in the flyweight (51 kg) category and won a bronze medal, marking a significant milestone for Indian boxing on the world stage.
3. Nicknamed “Magnificent Mary”
Her extraordinary accomplishments earned her the popular nickname “Magnificent Mary.” This nickname symbolizes her skill, courage, and resilience both inside and outside the boxing ring. She transcended sports stereotypes in India by carving a niche for herself in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
4. First Indian Woman Boxer to Win Asian Games Gold
In 2014, Mary Kom became the first Indian woman boxer to win a gold medal at the Asian Games held in Incheon, South Korea. This achievement further cemented her status as a trailblazer who inspired a generation of Indian female athletes.
5. Founder of MC Mary Kom Boxing Academy
To nurture young talent and give back to her community, Mary Kom established the MC Mary Kom Boxing Academy in Manipur. The academy provides free training and support to underprivileged girls aspiring to become boxers, helping them overcome socioeconomic barriers.
6. Honour of Carrying the Queen’s Baton
One of Mary Kom’s notable honors was carrying the Queen’s Baton during the opening ceremony of the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi. This prestigious role respected her as one of India’s foremost sports icons.
7. Inspiring Journey from School Dropout to Global Icon
Mary Kom dropped out of school in class 7 due to a lack of interest in studies and devoted herself entirely to boxing. Despite academic challenges, she later completed her graduation privately and defied all odds to become a global boxing superstar.
8. Balancing Sports and Family Life
Mary Kom is married to Karung Onkholer, a footballer and her childhood friend. The couple supports each other and is parents to three children, including twins and an adopted daughter, showing her strength in balancing a demanding sports career with family life.
9. Multiple National and Civilian Honors
Mary Kom has been bestowed with numerous prestigious awards by the Indian government including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India’s highest civilian honors. She has also received the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, India’s highest sporting award, underscoring her immense contribution to Indian sports.
10. Role Model and Catalyst for Women’s Boxing in India
Before Mary Kom’s rise, women’s boxing in India had very little recognition or infrastructure. Her success revolutionized the sport, leading to increased visibility, government support, and a wave of aspiring female boxers across the country. She is widely credited with inspiring a generation, making India a strong contender in international women’s boxing.
These fascinating facts about Mary Kom tell a story of perseverance, talent, and breaking barriers. From a modest upbringing to the world stage, Mary Kom’s journey embodies hope and inspiration, especially for women athletes in India and worldwide. Her legacy continues to grow, motivating countless young sports enthusiasts to dream big and overcome every challenge.
