State Indigenous Open Wrestling Cship 2025 concludes in Senapati
Source: Chronicle News Service

Senapati, May 02 2025: The Manipur State Indigenous Open Wrestling Championship 2025, which commenced on April 29, concluded at the Senapati Astro Turf Ground on Friday.

The valedictory ceremony was graced by Dr IK Muivah, IPS, Additional Director General of Police, who attended as the chief guest.

In his welcome address, Kevin Kampa Kui, vice president of Senapati District Wrestling Association, Manipur (SDWAM), highlighted that the primary aim of the championship was to promote indigenous sporting traditions.

He also expressed the association's ambition to provide a larger platform in the near future to preserve and promote these culturally significant games.

State Indigenous Open Wrestling Cship 2025 concludes in Senapati

Delivering his speech, Dr IK Muivah, ADGP, remarked that wrestling is one of the most popular sports among various communities in the state, including the Kukis.

He noted that traditional indigenous wrestling often features prominently in community festivities, enhancing the cultural richness and enjoyment of such events.

Observing friends compete in the arena also inspired many spectators to join in, demonstrating how these traditional games can motivate and engage the youth.

The chief guest encouraged the further development of indigenous wrestling, suggesting that athletes should aim to participate not only in national competitions but also on international platforms such as the Olympics, MMA, and UFC.

He emphasised that wrestling provides essential foundational skills for such combat sports.

Notably, some fighters from the district have already competed in MMA events, and he urged aspiring athletes to continue honing their wrestling abilities.

IK Muivah also stressed the need for a dedicated centre for indigenous sports to promote various traditional games practised in the region.

Semifinal and final bouts across four categories were held on the final day of the event.

In the 14-15 years category, Sholavei (15), son of Thaisii from Chingmai Khullen, emerged as the champion, while Hravi Ashe (15), son of Ashe from Tunggam Khullen, secured the runners-up position.

In the 16-17 years category, Robinson (17), son of Shuyu from Tungjoy village, clinched the championship title, with Adavio Shiba (17) as runner-up.

In the open category (below 70 kg), Gladson, son of Karongi from Khongdei Khuman, was declared champion, while Lyazii, son of Row from Saranamai Khaikho, took the runners-up position.

In the heavyweight open category (above 70 kg), Rakhovei Liimai, son of Danii Liimai from Phuba Khuman village, secured the championship title, while Shekho Veini, son of Shekho from Tungjoy village, finished as runner-up.

Winners in the open categories received cash prizes of Rs 1,00,000 along with medals and certificates.

Runners-up were awarded Rs 70,000, along with medals and certificates.

In the age-group categories, champions received Rs 30,000 and runners-up Rs 20,000, both accompanied by medals and certificates.

All finalists received consolation prizes in recognition of their performance.