Kerala emerge overall winners at National Armwrestling & Para-Armwrestling Championship
Gandhinagar, June 3
Kerala emerged as the overall champions at the 4th National Armwrestling & Para-Armwrestling Championship. They successfully defended their title by achieving the highest medal count for the second year in a row.
The Armwrestling Sports Association Gujarat organised the championship, led by President Rajendrasinh Parmar and Treasurer Mayank Patel, under the auspices of the People's Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI).
Yuvraj Verma was a standout, earning the title of Senior Men's Champion of Champions. He first claimed the 110 kg category and then showcased an impressive streak by defeating champions from lighter weight classes. His victories included Denic Lalruattluanga (90 kg ), Vethozo Lohe (85 kg), and finally Aabhas Rana (100 kg) in the grand final, earning the prestigious Champion of Champions crown. Additionally, Yuvraj achieved a remarkable double by winning gold in both the right-hand and left-hand 110 kg categories.
In the women's division, Madhura Hassan won the Women's Champion of Champions by defeating K Lalhriatpuii from Mizoram in the final.
The championship featured many memorable moments and surprising upsets. Notably, 18-year-old Aabhas Rana caused a major surprise by defeating the previously undefeated Mazahir Saidu in the 100 kg final, ending Saidu's long-standing dominance.
In the women's category, Kerala's Joshya J made a breakthrough by winning gold and defeating two of India's top armwrestlers, Yogesh Chaudhary and Nirmal Devi.
Speaking after the conclusion of the championship, Preeti Jhangiani, President of the People's Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI) and Vice President of the Asian Armwrestling Federation (AAF), said, "This championship has showcased the incredible depth of talent that now exists in Indian armwrestling. From established champions defending their legacy to young athletes producing upsets, we witnessed the future of the sport unfold before our eyes. We are proud to provide a platform where athletes from every background can compete and excel."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Happy to see more recognition for armwrestling in India. But I hope the federation focuses on grassroots development too, especially in rural areas where talent often goes unnoticed. The para-armwrestling category is a good step forward for inclusivity. 💪
Yuvraj Verma winning Champion of Champions by defeating three different weight category winners - that's some serious skill and endurance! The sport is definitely evolving in India. Need more such events to encourage youth participation. 👊
Madhura Hassan winning Women's Champion of Champions and Joshya J defeating top armwrestlers - women's armwrestling is on the rise in India! This is exactly the kind of exposure our female athletes need. Well done to all participants! 🌟
As someone from Kerala, this makes me proud! But I hope the association also works on standardizing equipment and training facilities across states. We need more than just medals - we need a proper ecosystem for the sport to thrive long-term.
Great to see armwrestling getting organized attention. However, I feel the media coverage is still minimal compared to other sports. Preeti Jhangiani's leadership at PAFI and AAF is commendable. With more sponsors, this could become a mainstream sport in India! 🔥
R