Refusing to shake hands with Nikhat Zareen after defeating her 9-1 in the final round of 51 kg women’s boxing trials for Tokyo Olympic Qualifiers, Mary Kom said she did not appreciate people like Zareen.
“Why should I shake hands with her? If she wants others to respect her then she should respect others first,” Mary told reporters.
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“I don’t like people with such nature. Just prove your point inside the ring, not outside,” the six-time world champion reiterated.
“Respect begets respect, she should know it well,” Mary added.
Speaking to the media after the match, Zareen also revealed that she was “hurt” by Mary’s behaviour
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She also alleged that Mary used “foul language” against her during the match.
The victory means Mary will now represent India in the Tokyo Olympic Qualifiers in China next year.