#India #New Delhi #Pro Wrestling League #Indian Wrestling #WFI

Pro Wrestling League Returns in 2026

The Pro Wrestling League (PWL), India’s prestigious wrestling competition, is making its comeback in mid-January 2026, as announced by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). This revival follows the league's last successful run in 2019 and introduces a fresh public-private partnership model aimed at enhancing opportunities for Indian wrestlers on a global stage.

During a recent press briefing in New Delhi attended by prominent figures including former WFI President Shri Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, it was emphasized that wrestling holds a significant place in Indian culture. Singh remarked, "Wrestling is not just a sport in India; it is our heritage. The Pro Wrestling League will serve as a connection from our traditional akhadas to the international arena."

This new chapter for the PWL seeks to achieve what the Indian Premier League (IPL) has done for cricket, fostering a generation of talented wrestlers poised for success in international competitions such as the Olympics and Asian Games. The league is designed to focus equally on women's wrestling, aiming to empower female athletes and encourage a new generation of competitors to shine on the global platform.

WFI President, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, highlighted that the league will serve as a robust training ground for India’s future champions. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity and gender equality, the PWL plans to create an environment where female wrestlers receive equal opportunities and resources, positioning them for success in various tournaments.

The PWL will witness top Indian wrestlers competing alongside international luminaries from renowned wrestling nations. This franchise-based league not only promotes athletic excellence but also presents lucrative avenues for corporate and private investors, ensuring financial viability for all involved.

Chairman and promoter of PWL, Mr. Dayaan Farooqui, stated that the league is structured upon a self-sustaining and commercially viable model which benefits both athletes and investors. His vision is to make wrestling a mainstream sport in India, enjoying fan engagement and excitement comparable to that of other iconic leagues.

CEO of PWL, Mr. Akhil Gupta, reiterated the organization’s commitment to a player-first approach, crafting contracts, incentives, and partnerships that secure financial stability for athletes, allowing them to concentrate on their performance without external worries. Under the guidance of COO Mr. Sumit Dubey, the league will prioritize forging strong partnerships with franchise owners and sponsors to ensure a seamless execution and commercial success.

Excitement builds as the details of the upcoming season, including the list of franchise owners and international participants, are set to be revealed soon. The PWL aims to reclaim wrestling's status as one of India's most historically cherished sports, promoting it to a global audience anew.

In summary, as preparations are underway for the Pro Wrestling League's return, stakeholders are optimistic that this league will not only uplift the standards of Indian wrestling but also inspire the nation's youth to pursue the sport with passion and commitment. The WFI continues to reaffirm its mission to bring India’s wrestling prowess back into the limelight, nurturing talent that can compete and excel on the world stage.

About WFI

The Wrestling Federation of India is the main governing body responsible for the sport of wrestling in India, an organization affiliated with the Indian Olympic Association and United World Wrestling.

About PWL

The Pro Wrestling League represents India's top professional wrestling platform, created to empower athletes and showcase wrestling on a global scale.