Kohima, April 11: Nagaland’s wrestling community is celebrating a proud moment as a four-member contingent from the state prepares to represent India at the United World Wrestling (UWW) Asian Belt Wrestling Championship 2026, scheduled to be held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on April 13 and 14.
The participation of the Naga wrestlers in the prestigious continental championship marks another significant milestone for traditional wrestling in Nagaland and highlights the growing recognition of indigenous Naga wrestling on international platforms. The team will compete as part of the Indian Belt Wrestling Team under the aegis of the All India Traditional Wrestling & Pankration Federation.
Leading the delegation is Vivolie Kezo, President of the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA), who will accompany the athletes and represent the state at the championship. Joining him are three accomplished wrestlers who have earned the opportunity to compete against some of the best belt wrestlers from across Asia.
Among the athletes is Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü, who will compete in the 100-plus kilogram category in both the freestyle and classic styles of belt wrestling. Known for his strength and consistency in traditional wrestling competitions, Pienyü is expected to be one of India’s strong contenders in the heavyweight division.
Another prominent member of the team is Venuzo Dawhuo, who will compete in the below 100-kilogram category in both freestyle and classic events. Dawhuo recently gained attention after emerging as champion in major wrestling tournaments in Nagaland and is regarded as one of the state's leading wrestlers.
Completing the team is Nlumrai Hegwang, who will represent India in the below 80-kilogram freestyle category. Hegwang has consistently demonstrated impressive performances in state and regional competitions and will be aiming to make his mark on the continental stage.
In a statement issued ahead of the championship, the Nagaland Wrestling Association expressed pride in the selection of the athletes and described their participation as a major achievement for both Nagaland and the country. The association noted that the opportunity to compete internationally reflects the dedication, hard work, and talent of Naga wrestlers who have long excelled in traditional forms of wrestling.
The association also conveyed its gratitude to Temjen Imna Along, Nagaland’s Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, and the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, for sponsoring the team's participation in the championship. Officials said the support provided by the state government has played a crucial role in enabling local athletes to compete at the international level.
According to the NWA, the minister has been actively supporting initiatives aimed at promoting indigenous Naga wrestling and creating opportunities for local wrestlers to gain exposure beyond the state and national levels. The association particularly acknowledged his efforts in facilitating the inclusion of Naga wrestling in international sporting forums.
The NWA further highlighted that Naga wrestling is expected to receive a major boost with its proposed inclusion in the World Nomad Games 2026, which is also scheduled to be held in Bishkek later this year. The World Nomad Games, often described as the Olympics of traditional and indigenous sports, bring together athletes from around the globe to compete in various cultural and heritage-based sporting disciplines.
Sports enthusiasts in Nagaland have welcomed the development, viewing it as an important step toward preserving and promoting the state's traditional sport on the global stage. The participation of Naga wrestlers in international competitions is also expected to inspire younger athletes to pursue the sport and carry forward the rich wrestling traditions of the region.
As the team departs for Kyrgyzstan, the Nagaland Wrestling Association has appealed to the wrestling fraternity, sports lovers, and the general public to extend their support and encouragement to the athletes. The association expressed confidence that the wrestlers will represent both Nagaland and India with pride, determination, and sportsmanship.
The championship presents a valuable opportunity for the athletes to showcase their skills, gain international experience, and strengthen India's presence in the growing arena of traditional and belt wrestling competitions. For Nagaland, their participation represents yet another step in bringing indigenous sporting traditions to a wider global audience.
