Mary Kom stays on course for her fifth world title

BRIDGETOWN - India’s four-time world champion boxer M.C. Mary Kom stayed on course for a record fifth world title as she moved into the semi-finals of the sixth Women’s World Boxing Championships along with compatriot Kavita.

India are now assured of at least two medals as both the losing semi-finalist get the bronze medals.

Mary Kom beat Lynsey Holdaway from Wales 9-2 in the quarter-finals of the 48kg category Wednesday to set up a semi-final clash with Alice Appari of the Philippines. Mary Kom had defeated Alice in their only meeting six years back.

Against Lynsey, Mary Kom took a 2-1 lead in the opening round and in the next two round she opened up a lead of 6-2.

Mary Kom said it was not a tough bout for her.

“I had never faced her before but didn’t have to slog too much. So far so good. Despite the increased competition, I think I can still dominate my category. I am not bragging but it hasn’t been very tough for me despite the fact that I have already fought three rounds. My body is also feeling great,” she said.

On the prospect of facing Alice, Mary Kom said: “I know this girl. I beat her in 2004 and hopefully even this time I would win. I will try my best. I have my fingers crossed for a fifth consecutive gold.”

Kavita also booked her semi-final berth in the 81 kg-plus category by beating Adriana Hosu of Romania 9-6 and will face Kateryna Kuzhel of the Ukraine in the semi-final slated for Friday. Compatriot Laxmi Padiya (81kg) lost 4-18 to Kazakh girl Marina Volnova in the quarterfinals.