Keeping her guard up

Mary Kom won her world amateur titles at 46 and 48kg but the lightest of the three weight categories in London will be 51kg.

India's boxer MC Mary Kom gestures during an interview with Reuters at Balewadi Stadium in Pune, about 190 km (118 miles) from Mumbai, March 12, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

Her defeat at the weight class in the 2010 Asian Games semi-finals was a wake-up call and she spent a month in Pune sparring with three heavier male boxers to prepare.

"In the 46-48kg category I know every boxer and I defeat them whenever I fight them. They are also short boxers. But I never fought tall boxers like in the 51kg category. So I had no experience (before the Asian Games)," she said.

"This time I am sparring with male boxers. I brought three sparring partners -- 60kg, 57kg and 54kg. I learned my weaknesses at the Asian Games and other competitions where I lost. My guard was down.

"I am learning how to improve my guard and the combination of how to go close and fight. There is a lot of improvement."

The Muhammad Ali fan shudders at the prospect of failing to qualify.

"Everyone is worried about what if I don't qualify. I am giving my best and doing my best. Beyond that, it's not in my hands.

"Nobody will concede an inch just because I'm a five-times world champion. I'm aware of the expectations.

"Everyone is expecting me to win the gold. I too want a gold medal. Right now, I will just continue to keep my focus on my training."

Balancing boxing and motherhood is a daily challenge for Mary Kom. Last May while she was competing in China one of her sons was admitted to hospital. When travelling for tournaments, she calls her children every night before they go to bed and returns with lots of toys.

Mary Kom has also become a role model in her home state, where she has started a boxing academy. While she is making progress the project needs funds.

"We now need a boxing ring and a hall. We are just giving training on the field," she added. "Still, we are achieving a lot."