Asian Boxing C’ship: Mary Kom storms into quarters

The Olympic bronze medallist — also a five-time world champion — beat local boxer Diem Thi Trinh Kieu in the light flyweight (48kg) category.

Kom, who won gold on four occasions at this event, is making a comeback to her ideal weight division (48kg).

 

M.C. Mary Kom stormed into the quarterfinals of the Asian Women’s Boxing Championship, here on Thursday, after winning her opening bout.

The Olympic bronze medallist — also a five-time world champion — beat local boxer Diem Thi Trinh Kieu in the light flyweight (48kg) category.

Read: Even before first bout, India assured of medal at Asian Boxing

The 34-year-old, who won gold on four occasions at this event, is making a comeback to her ideal weight division. Earlier, abiding by Olympic standards, she used to compete in the 51kg category.

Kom and Kieu started slow, trying to gauge each others’ mind and movements, and gained pace in the second round. The veteran didn’t waste time and in no time, she started dominating her opponent. Her sharp reflexes denied Kieu clear shots.

However, Kieu displayed her skills in the final three minutes, but Kom upped her ante to defend the game. She launched severe blows to disbalance Kieu.

The Indian will face Meng-Chieh Ping (Chinese Taipei) in the quarterfinals.

In the 54kg category, Shiksha won her opening campaign Mongolia’s Oyun-Erdene Nergui.

Around 107 boxers from 20 nations are competing in the event, India is placed third in all-time medals’ list with 19 gold, 21 silver and 20 bronze.