Olympic bronze medallist and Indian boxing icon Mary Kom has officially confirmed her divorce from her husband, Karung Onkholer, also known as Onler. The divorce was finalised on December 20, 2023, under KOM customary law, with the mutual consent of both parties and in the presence of family members and clan elders.
The six-time world champion made the announcement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), issuing a formal legal notice to clarify her position following a wave of baseless rumours surrounding her personal life.
Divorce Finalised Months Ago Under Customary Law
Mary Kom emphasized that the separation had taken place peacefully and respectfully. The couple, who had been together for nearly two decades and share four children, reportedly decided to part ways after prolonged personal differences. The legal separation was conducted following traditional procedures, reflecting their indigenous roots in Manipur’s KOM community.
In her statement, Mary Kom clarified:
“My divorce from Karung Onkholer was finalised amicably on 20th December 2023. We parted ways by mutual consent, under KOM customary law, and in the presence of both our families. We have both moved on with mutual respect.”
False Allegations and Legal Warning
The announcement comes in response to a recent spate of online gossip and speculative media reports alleging Kom’s involvement in extramarital affairs. Specifically, rumours linked her to Hitesh Choudhary, a business partner and the chairman of the Mary Kom Boxing Foundation, and another unnamed boxer’s husband.
Mary Kom categorically denied all such allegations, labeling them false, defamatory, and deeply hurtful. The legal notice she shared warns that any further dissemination of these rumours will result in legal consequences, including charges of defamation and violation of privacy laws.
“There is no truth whatsoever to the rumours circulating about my alleged relationship with Mr. Hitesh Choudhary or anyone else. These are fabricated and malicious attempts to tarnish my reputation,” the notice reads.
Appeal for Privacy and Respect
Mary Kom expressed that the past two years have been emotionally challenging. She appealed to the public, media, and her fans to respect her privacy during this period of personal transition.
“I have faced numerous challenges in the ring, but personal battles are often harder. These past two years have tested me emotionally, and I request everyone to allow me the space and dignity to heal and move forward.”
She also confirmed that a press conference was held in Manipur to formally address these issues, and the legal notice should be considered the final word on the matter. The boxer hopes that this transparent step will silence further speculation and allow her to focus on her work and family life.
A Legacy Beyond the Ring
Mary Kom remains one of India’s most celebrated athletes. She is the only female boxer to win the World Amateur Boxing Championship six times and the first Indian woman boxer to bring home an Olympic medal (bronze, 2012 London Olympics). Her dedication to the sport, along with her advocacy for women’s empowerment and youth development through her foundation, has made her a national icon.
Despite personal setbacks, Kom continues to mentor young athletes and support grassroots boxing initiatives across India. Sources close to her confirm that she is focused on expanding the reach of the Mary Kom Boxing Foundation and supporting new talent, especially from the Northeast region.
Conclusion
Mary Kom’s decision to publicly address her divorce and tackle the rumours head-on reflects both grace and strength—qualities that have defined her throughout her career. While her personal life has recently come under scrutiny, her commitment to the sport and social causes remains unwavering.
As she moves forward from this chapter, Kom has one simple request: dignity, space, and privacy.
