Mary Kom won her first world title in the 45 kg class by securing gold.
During the 2nd AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championship in Antalya, Turkey, Mary Kom clinched her first gold medal in the 45 kg category on October 14, 2002. This triumph was a noteworthy achievement as it solidified her reputation as a dominant force in women’s boxing on an international level. The historic win significantly boosted the profile of Indian women's boxing and enhanced her status as a trailblazer within the sport. It also sparked greater interest in boxing among young Indian women, proving that elite-level success was reachable.