‘In the boxing ring, she can even take on King Kong’

Ironical as it may sound, Charles Atkinson watched his ward enter the medal round of the London Olympics on television from his home in Liverpool.

Ironical as it may sound, Charles Atkinson watched his ward enter the medal round of the London Olympics on television from his home in Liverpool.

The coach couldn’t get accreditation to be with Mary Kom during her bout on Monday because AIBA guidelines prevent professional boxing coaches to be a part of the Olympics. Sadly, he couldn’t even manage a ticket.

After winning her quarterfinal against Maroua Rahali of Tunisia, which assured her of at least a bronze, Mary Kom’s first reaction was that she missed Atkinson’s presence.

“I am missing my coach. He has helped me a lot and I am really thankful to him,” she said.

“I am very happy for Mary Kom. She is a talented boxer and deserves to be in the semifinals of the Olympics,” Atkinson told HT from Liverpool.

“I couldn't come earlier as there were no tickets available. But I bear no grudge. I am in regular touch with her over phone. Now, as I have got tickets for the semifinal (on Wednesday), I will be in the spectators’ gallery to cheer her on,” he added.

Mary Kom, a five-time world champion, has been training under Atkinson since last year and before coming to London, was with him for two weeks in Liverpool. “She is a hardworking boxer and is ready to take on any load during training. I respect her for her commitment and I want to see her proceed further,” said the coach, who has produced a number of professional champions.

Mary Kom had lost to England’s Nicola Adams, in the world championships, who she will face in the semifinal. Moreover, her opponent will have the crowd’s support. So, will there be pressure on the Indian? “When she enters the ring, she has the guts to even take on King Kong. So, the word ‘pressure’ is missing from her dictionary. She lost to the English boxer after giving off her best. She will again give off her best and is capable of winning gold," said Atkinson.