Azize Nimani: Kosovo born Albanian whose life "changed" after beating Mary Kom at 2016 Worlds

Azize Nimani is proud of her "Albanian blood", understands the pain of war-torn people of Kosovo, where she was born, and is never afraid to pull back punches when she represents her adopted country Germany in the boxing ring.

MC Mary Kom will never be able to forget the 26-year-old Azize, who dashed her 2016 Rio Olympic dreams by defeating her in the second round of the 2016 World Championships in Astana.

European Championship bronze medallist in 51kg, Azize accepts that beating Mary in 2016 was a landmark win in her career.

"Beating Mary Kom during 2016 Olympic Qualifiers was an important fight for me. Because Mary is a legend in women's boxing and if you can beat her, you can beat everyone. So of course it meant a lot to me as it showed that I can be on top," Azize said during an interaction ahead of the AIBA Women's World Championship, starting November 15.

Azize is a fascinating character, an eclectic mix of different cultures and she flaunts it proudly.

"I basically represent Europe," Nimani said with a chuckle.

On her left bicep, there is an eagle tattoo and she excitedly replies: "That's the Albanian eagle and it's a part of me. I don't want to hide it. Yes I am boxing for Germany but I am proud of my Albanian blood."
"I am proud that I have my roots in Kosovo and also proud that I am a German now. Because now I am boxing for Germany and that's all what matters."
When Azize was asked about Ozil's experience, she said: "I wasn't at his place so I can't talk for him (Ozil) but every story has two parts. People have to work together and not against each other. It will always be the way to understand each other."