Guwahati: Six-time world boxing champion Mary Kom has issued a clarification following the backlash over her remarks about her ex-husband Onler Kom during a recent television appearance. Addressing the controversy, Kom said her comments stemmed from “years of suppressed pain, depression, feeling used, and betrayal” that surfaced in an emotionally overwhelming moment.

In a video shared on Instagram, Mary Kom spoke at length about the turmoil surrounding her marriage, stating that the relationship deteriorated after a breakdown of trust. She reiterated her allegation that she was cheated of crores of rupees and lost possession of land purchased with her own earnings, which was later seized by underground groups.

The clarification came after a video clip went viral in which Kom was heard saying, “To be honest, he married me and got everything from my earnings. He did not earn a single rupee.” The remark drew sharp reactions on social media.

Seeking to clear the air, Mary Kom said, “I want to clarify that it is not true that my marriage was never successful. Everything was fine for many years. But later, when trust completely broke, things changed.”

She also emphasised that she had maintained silence even after her divorce in April 2025 and despite a press release circulated against her. “I did not give any statement publicly or to the media. I have always conducted myself with dignity and restraint,” she said.

The former Rajya Sabha member also addressed criticism from the football community, clarifying that her comments were misunderstood and not aimed at any sport or sportsperson.

“My remark was taken in the wrong direction on social media, which is quite unfortunate. I am absolutely not against youth football, football culture or the football fraternity. I may be a boxer, but I love football from the heart and enjoy playing it myself. My comment was not directed at any sport or players,” she said.

Explaining the context further, Mary Kom said that while her ex-husband had spoken about sacrificing his football career, he had played in Shillong and that she met him later in Delhi after he had stepped away from the sport. “Everyone starts from the streets, but only those who work hard and remain determined become players like Sunil Chhetri or Bhaichung Bhutia. That is what was meant,” she added.

Mary Kom also issued an apology to the “wider male community” for hurting sentiments with her remarks. “I sincerely apologise to all those, especially the wider male community, who were hurt or disappointed by my comment on the Aap Ki Adalat show,” she said.

Clarifying her intent, she added, “My statement was never meant for all men, nor was it intended to insult or demean any individual. It was purely connected to our personal conflict. That moment was emotionally overwhelming for me, as years of pain, depression, feeling used and betrayal surfaced all at once. My statement should not be seen as a teaching, ideology or narrative. I do not promote any negative thought or belief.”