Star Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia has been handed a four-year ban by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) for refusing to provide a sample during a drug test. The decision follows a series of events, including a lifted provisional suspension and appeals, and has sparked controversy due to Punia’s claims of unfair treatment and the use of expired testing kits.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Indian wrestling team’s participation in the World Championships has been cleared after 12 selected athletes staged a protest outside the residence of Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, demanding their participation. This comes a day after the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) withdrew the nation’s entries due to a legal challenge by wrestler Satyawart Kadian. The protest highlights the ongoing turmoil within the WFI and raises questions about the selection process and the federation’s handling of the situation.
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has withdrawn Indian wrestlers from the upcoming World Championships in Tirana, Albania, citing government interference in its operations. The decision comes after a long-standing dispute between the WFI and the Sports Ministry, which has resulted in the de-recognition of the federation and the formation of an ad-hoc committee to run its affairs. The WFI alleges that the Ministry’s actions are compromising the federation’s autonomy and hindering its ability to function effectively.
Vishvajit More made history by securing India’s first medal at the Under-23 Wrestling World Championships in Tirana, Albania. He clinched the bronze in the men’s 55kg Greco-Roman category with a thrilling victory over Adam Ulbashev. Anjly, another Indian wrestler, is set to battle for gold in the women’s 59kg category.
Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik, in her new memoir ‘Witness’, details a harrowing incident of sexual harassment by Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh at the Asian Junior Championships. The incident, which took place in Almaty, Kazakhstan, left Sakshi feeling violated and fearing for her career. The revelation has sent shockwaves through the Indian sporting community and raised serious questions about the safety of athletes.
‘Heels,’ a show about the world of professional wrestling, is a must-watch on Netflix. This captivating drama offers an inside look at the industry, focusing on the rivalry between two brothers, Jack and Ace Spade, who grapple with both their personal and professional lives in the ring. With an eclectic cast of characters, including wrestling legends, and a blend of drama, humor, and genuine love for the sport, ‘Heels’ delivers a compelling experience that’s sure to keep you hooked.
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is urging the Commonwealth Games Federation to keep wrestling in the 2026 CWG roster, but the decision ultimately lies with Scotland, the prospective host. With wrestling not as popular in the UK, its chances of being retained seem slim.
Indian wrestling icons Sakshi Malik and Geeta Phogat have announced the formation of the Wrestling Champions Super League (WCSL), aiming to elevate Indian wrestling to global dominance. The league will feature top Indian wrestlers competing against the best in the world, fostering skill development and providing world-class support systems.
Vinesh Phogat, a prominent Indian wrestler, has accused the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha of political posturing after a photo of Usha visiting Phogat in the hospital following her failed weigh-in at the Paris Olympics was circulated on social media. Phogat, who retired from the sport after the incident, claims the photo was taken without her consent and was used to project a false image of support.
Vinesh Phogat’s recent entry into politics has led to her uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, shifting his focus to training his younger daughter, Sangeeta Phogat, for the 2028 Olympics. Mahavir expresses disappointment over Vinesh’s decision, highlighting her potential for Olympic gold, while alleging political manipulation by the Hoodas in bringing Vinesh into politics.
