Pro Wrestling League Set to Revitalize Indian Wrestling Scene in 2026

Pro Wrestling League Returns in 2026

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has officially announced the much-awaited return of the Pro Wrestling League (PWL) for 2026. Scheduled to kick off in mid-January, this league aims to transform Indian wrestling and provide a global platform for local wrestlers. The last season, which took place in 2019, laid a solid foundation, and now with a new public-private partnership model, the PWL is set to take the sport to unprecedented levels.

At a press conference held recently in New Delhi, dignitaries including Shri Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, former WFI president and member of parliament, expressed their enthusiasm for this revival. "Wrestling is not just a sport in India; it is part of our heritage. The Pro Wrestling League will act as a bridge connecting our traditional akhadas (wrestling schools) to the international sports arena," he stated.

The WFI President, Shri Sanjay Kumar Singh, drew parallels with cricket, suggesting that what the Indian Premier League (IPL) did for cricket, the PWL aims to accomplish for wrestling. The goal is to cultivate talented athletes who will bring home medals from events such as the Olympics and Asian Games. He emphasized the importance of fostering women wrestlers, proclaiming a commitment to building a generation of female athletes that will excel globally.

The PWL will bring together top Indian wrestlers alongside international stars from strong wrestling countries. This franchise-based league is designed to attract corporate sponsorship and private investment, promising lucrative opportunities for all involved. Mr. Dayaan Farooqui, Chairman and Promoter of the PWL, highlighted the league's self-sustaining model, aimed not only at elevating the sport but also at ensuring financial viability for both athletes and investors.

"Our objective is to make wrestling a mainstream sport in India, showcasing it with the same energy and fan engagement as other top leagues," Farooqui noted. This fresh approach promises to invigorate the sports scene by drawing in fans and maximizing exposure, encouraging greater participation and interest in wrestling.

Furthermore, Mr. Akhil Gupta, the CEO of PWL, highlighted a player-first framework where wrestler contracts, incentives, and partnerships are prioritized. This structure is expected to enhance the athletes' focus on their performance, secure financial stability, and ultimately lead to better results in competitions.

Co-operations led by Mr. Sumit Dubey, COO of PWL, will ensure comprehensive franchise and sponsor partnerships, aiming for robust operational and commercial outcomes.

Specific details regarding the season schedule, franchise ownership, and international participation will be announced shortly. The Wrestling Federation of India, by reintroducing the Pro Wrestling League, aims to reaffirm its mission to place wrestling—one of India's oldest sports—on a global stage once again.

About WFI

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) is the governing body overseeing wrestling activities in India, affiliated with both the Indian Olympic Association and United World Wrestling.

About PWL

The Pro Wrestling League is the premier professional wrestling competition in India, designed to empower athletes and elevate the profile of wrestling internationally.