Six-time world champion MC Mary Kom believes India will return from the 2026 Commonwealth Games with a healthy medal haul but is not convinced the boxing contingent can replicate its previous gold-medal success.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with PTI, the Olympic bronze medallist also voiced concerns over the functioning of the Boxing Federation of India (BFI), describing its recent selection controversies as “unfortunate” and saying former champions are no longer consulted by the federation.
Mary Kom unsure about gold medals at Commonwealth Games
With the Commonwealth Games set to begin on July 23 in Glasgow, Mary Kom said she expects Indian boxers to reach the podium but admitted winning gold could prove difficult.
“We will win medals but I don’t expect gold. If it comes, I will be happy,” she told PTI.
The 43-year-old added that the challenge would be even greater at next year’s Asian Games.
“Asian Games is very tough though. In Commonwealth Games, we should be in at least the gold medal bouts. I pray we win everything.”
India won seven boxing medals, including three golds, at the previous Commonwealth Games.
Who are India’s biggest medal hopes?
India has named a 14-member boxing squad comprising seven men and seven women for Glasgow.
The women’s team is expected to lead the medal charge with:
- Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) – Olympic bronze medallist
- Jaismine Lamboria (57kg) – World No. 1
- Preeti Pawar (54kg) – Asian Games bronze medallist
- Arundhati Chaudhary (70kg)- World Cup gold medallist
Among the men, Sachin Siwach (60kg) and Narender Berwal (+90kg) are considered India’s leading medal contenders after strong performances at the Asian Championships.
While refusing to single out favourites, Mary Kom wished the entire squad success.
“It’s not easy to represent India. They are all getting responsibility, not just to participate… they will also think to come back with the medal for the country.”
Mary Kom criticises Boxing Federation of India
The former world champion also expressed disappointment with the BFI’s recent functioning amid a series of administrative controversies.
When asked about the federation, Mary Kom summed up her feelings in two words.
“Ajeeb hai (It is strange).”
The BFI has faced criticism in recent months over selection disputes, coaching appointments, accommodation issues during the National Championships and an allegedly non-transparent selection policy for major multi-sport events.
Mary Kom said some selection decisions were difficult to understand.
“I don’t know why some of the champion boxers did not get selected, this is not good for the future.”
She added:
“Performance is up and down but the selection not going right is unfortunate.”
‘Nobody asked about my recovery’
Mary Kom also revealed she has had little interaction with the BFI since the injury that ruled her out of the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
“Mera injury ke baad toh koi pucha nahi hai (Nobody got in touch after my injury), can you imagine that?”
She contrasted the current administration with earlier years.
“They used to call me… I would even give suggestions. That time it was a very good connection.”
According to Mary Kom, experienced former athletes are no longer being consulted despite the knowledge they can offer.
“They are not taking any suggestions… We have a lot of experience. I can share my experience at least.”
‘There is nobody like me’
Reflecting on her own career, Mary Kom said replicating her longevity and achievements would be extremely difficult.
The legendary boxer, who won six world titles and an Olympic bronze while returning from two maternity breaks, credited her success to relentless commitment.
“The secret to my longevity was my focus and refusal to be lazy.”
She also made a bold assessment of her legacy.
“Taking my legacy forward is very difficult. I don’t think anybody can. There is nobody like me.”
Mary Kom added that many young athletes lose motivation after achieving early success.
“Today’s kids develop ego after achieving one thing. Thoda fame ke baad mehnat karna nahi chahte hai (They don’t want to work hard after getting fame).”