World Women's boxing C'ships: Hanna stands between Mary Kom and a historic sixth title
Mary Kom will face Ukrainian Hanna Okhota in the 48kg final of the World Women's boxing championships on Saturday. Mary Kom emerged the victor in their previous encounter.
Published : Nov 23, 2018 17:55 IST
M.C. Mary Kom, who is bidding to attain the unique status of being a six-time World champion, will meet Ukrainian Hanna Okhota in the 48kg final of the World women's boxing championships at the Indira Gandhi Stadium Complex here on Saturday.
It has been a challenging journey for the 35-year-old, who has displayed her tremendous grit, game sense, tactical acumen and superb fitness to get the better of younger opponents – Aigerim Kassenayeva of Kazakhstan, Yu Wu of China and Hyang Mi Kim of North Korea – and reach her seventh final in the event.
Mary had earlier beaten Hanna in the semifinals of the Silesian Open in Poland in September with a 5-0 scoreline and will be eyeing to repeat that in front of the home crowd at the K.D. Jadhav arena here.
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It will be interesting to see what strategy the Ukrainian adopts against Mary and how the five-time World champion and an Olympic medallist responds to it.
Win or loss, it will be an unforgettable moment for Hanna. “She (Mary) is a strong boxer, an Indian star and a women's boxing legend. I am glad to have a fight in final with her. It will be an interesting fight. For me, it will be a great experience. I will do everything to win,” said Hanna.
Mary is focused on her job. “I have beaten her in Poland. I will read that bout and plan the strategy. I hope to beat her again," said Mary.
The stands will be packed when Mary enters the ring on Saturday.