The Olympic jab!

How did you get into the sport of boxing? Who was your inspiration?
My inspiration has always been my family. I was introduced to the sport at a very early age, thanks to my dad. He was in the Indian Army’s boxing team. He wanted me to fulfill his dream of making India proud in the ring. There has been no looking back since then.

How is the preparation for Olympics different from the other championships?
Competition is fierce since I will be competing with the best. Training sessions are rigorous as one needs to be physically and mentally fit. (Gold medal at) Commonwealth Games gave me the belief that I can beat them. I am confident that I will give my best performance at the Olympics.

Any changes in training or strategies for the Olympics?
Every good performance boosts my confidence and it is necessary to go to the Olympics with a high morale. Olympics are highly competitive; what is needed, other than confidence, is application of strategy.

You narrowly missed the gold at the Olympic Qualifying Boxing tournament in 2008.  What do you think went wrong?
Each sportsman has a good and bad day. May be that just wasn’t my day, but I am ready to face Olympics 2012 and I want to emerge as a surprise medalist.

Between Beijing and London, what has changed?
After the 2008 Olympics, I’m sure many of the athletes feel more confident since India performed remarkably well and are now ready to give some stiff competition. People seem to be taking more interest in the sport; it’s slowly getting its due recognition. Also, it’s very motivating for young boxers to see their seniors qualify for the London Olympics. It provides them with the motivation to prove themselves and be able to represent the country. Being one of the best isn’t enough. Developing strategies is crucial to win a game.

Who do you feel would give you the toughest competition at the upcoming Olympics?
I don’t consider anyone as my sole or toughest competitor. Whenever I am in the ring, my only goal is to win. I try to concentrate on improving my own performance.

Besides skill and talent, what else is required to be a boxing champion?
One needs to be dedicated and motivated. Also, defeat should be embraced because it’s part and parcel of life. And one needs to be sure of his/her goal and work towards achieving it.

Boxing is not as popular a sport as cricket. Were there times when you felt frustrated because of lack of support and recognition for this sport?
There have been times when I have been under pressure and felt under-confident, but I can’t imagine giving up this sport because I love boxing, and one day I wish to make my country and family proud. I have been working very hard and I’m honoured to be part of the London Olympics 2012.

Vijender Singh is now quite a popular name in boxing. How is his training different from yours? Would you say luck plays a role in winning?
Vijender Singh is an experienced athlete; he’s got his strategies in place. More than luck, one’s hard work and perseverance play a pivotal role.
 
Mexico has produced many boxing champions. How do you think India can catch up?
Boxing is slowly receiving the recognition it deserves in India. Plus, India’s boxing team is very capable. Soon, we are certain that we will make India proud.

According to you, what can be done to tap more boxing talent in India?
People in India are slowly accepting career options in diverse sports like badminton, boxing, tennis etc. All these sports are gaining popularity. Parents should be supportive. India is witnessing a flurry of emerging boxers with great talent, and in the coming years we will see them perform exceedingly well.