Xtra Time Web Desk: Six-time world champion M C Mary Kom (51kg) had to settle for silver medal in the Asian Boxing Championships after going down in an intense final against Nazym Kyzaibay of Kazakhstan at Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Mary Kom lost in a split 2-3 verdict. It was her seventh medal in the tournament, the first being a gold that came way back in the 2003 edition.
Up against an opponent 11 years younger to her, the 38-year-old made an impressive start and clinched the opening round comfortably by relying on her sharp counter-attacks.
The intensity picked up in the second round and both the boxers showed aggressive intent. The Kazakh drew level at this point with her jabs landing perfectly.
Mary Kom fought back in the final three minutes but that was not enough to get the judges’ nod.
The Manipuri legend also won a prize money of USD 5,000 for her campaign, while Kyzaibay was richer by USD 10,000.