Mary Kom Raises Concerns About BFI’s Training After Indian Boxers’ Poor Show in Paris

Following India’s boxing team’s disappointing performance at the Paris Olympics, six-time World Championships medallist MC Mary Kom has raised concerns about the training overseen by the Boxing Federation of India (BFI). Despite the team’s star-studded lineup, including two World Champions and two World medallists, they returned without a single medal.

“The Federation provided all the coaches, but I have my doubts. What’s the point in raising them now? The Olympics are over. However, I plan to discuss it during a meeting,” said the London Olympics bronze medallist at an event in Mumbai.

The 41-year-old boxing icon expressed her wish to meet with the BFI and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to address the shortcomings that led to the underwhelming results in Paris. “We are all disappointed. There were very few medals in general, and boxing didn’t secure any. I intend to speak with the Sports Minister and the federation about the training and the facilities. From what I’ve seen, something wasn’t right with the preparation,” Mary said.

While she praised the Sports Minister for his efforts to improve infrastructure, she questioned whether the Federation handled the athletes’ training systematically. “What exactly happened? I don’t know, but I intend to find out,” she added.

Despite being a mother of four, Mary Kom reiterated her desire to pursue professional boxing. “I haven’t retired yet. I still want to compete. I’m waiting for an opportunity to fight professionally. I believe I can continue for another three to four years. I have the passion and hunger to keep going,” she concluded.