The Pro Wrestling League (PWL) effect is showing no signs of slowing down. Several stars from the league’s fifth season lit up the Senior Open Ranking Wrestling Tournament in Gonda (May 10-12), delivering strong performances that have boosted their chances for upcoming World and Commonwealth Championships selection trials.
The tournament once again highlighted how PWL is playing a vital role in nurturing India’s wrestling talent by providing high-pressure competition against both domestic and international wrestlers.
In the men’s freestyle category, standout results came thick and fast. Sagar from UP Dominators clinched gold in the 57kg division. Maharashtra Kesari’s Yash Tushir stole the show in the 74kg category with a commanding run, defeating five opponents on his way to the top of the podium.
Tushir’s victory carried extra emotion — it marked a powerful comeback. The former World Junior bronze medallist had been sidelined for nearly two years with nagging knee, shoulder, and toe injuries. After six months of intense rehabilitation, he returned to competition in style, reminding everyone of his immense potential.
Tigers of Mumbai Dangals wrestler Naveen powered his way to gold in the 79kg category, while seasoned campaigner Deepak Punia (Maharashtra Kesari) added yet another gold to his impressive career by winning the 92kg division.
On the women’s side, Delhi Dangal Warriors’ Anjali secured a silver medal in the 62kg category, keeping her national team aspirations alive.
PWL CEO & Promoter Akhil Gupta expressed delight at the results, saying the league continues to serve as a crucial platform that prepares wrestlers for the biggest stages. With PWL Season 5 wrestlers having already contributed heavily to India’s success at the Senior Asian Championships, these domestic triumphs further underline the league’s growing impact on the country’s wrestling ecosystem.
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