Historic First: Women Wrestlers to Compete in 15th Open Naga Wrestling Championship

Kohima, March 25: In a groundbreaking move, the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) is set to host the 15th Open Naga Wrestling Championship on March 28 at Khuochiezie (Kohima Local Ground), featuring women wrestlers for the first time. This marks a significant step in expanding the sport, promoting gender inclusivity, and pushing for global recognition.

The championship will have three categories for men:
Men’s Open Category (Champion – ₹2,00,000, 2nd Place – ₹1,00,000, Semi-Finalists – ₹50,000 each)
Men’s Below 90 kg & Below 75 kg (Champion – ₹1,00,000, 2nd Place – ₹50,000, Semi-Finalists – ₹25,000 each)

For women, two weight categories have been introduced:
60 kg & Above (Champion – ₹50,000, 2nd Place – ₹25,000, Semi-Finalists – ₹10,000 each)
Below 60 kg (Champion – ₹50,000, 2nd Place – ₹25,000, Semi-Finalists – ₹10,000 each)
Wrestlers and officials are required to report for weight measurement on March 27 (10:00 AM–2:00 PM), with the main event commencing at 8:30 AM on March 28.

The championship’s Special Guest will be Jacob Zhimomi, Minister of PHED & Co-operation, while the Honoured Guest will be Chingmak Chang, President of ENPO.

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Expansion & Global Aspirations
The NWA, under President Vivolie Kezo, reaffirmed its commitment to expanding Naga Wrestling beyond its traditional base. For the first time, 129 wrestlers (100 men, 29 women) from 10 tribes – Angami, Chakhesang, Zeliang, Lotha, Sumi, Pochury, Rengma, Chang, Ao, and Phom – will compete in the open championship.

With these developments, the association is optimistic about hosting the Asian Belt Wrestling Championship in Nagaland. To gain recognition under United World Wrestling (UWW) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Naga Wrestling must include women’s wrestling, proper costumes, weight categories, and a point-based system.

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Meanwhile, Naga Wrestling will also be featured during the International Hornbill Naga Wrestling Championship, though without women’s participation.

This historic championship is expected to strengthen the sport’s identity, create opportunities for Naga wrestlers, and set the stage for future international competitions.