Nagaland: Kevizhakho Suokhrie wins WAYO Wrestling Meet 2026

Kevizhakho Suokhrie of Jotsoma village was crowned champion of the 62nd Western Angami Youth Organisation (WAYO) Wrestling Meet 2026, held at Khuochiezie, Kohima, on Friday.
The 31-year-old wrestler defeated Seyiejalie Gwirie, also from Jotsoma village, in the final bout to clinch the title. Kevizhakho received a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, while runner-up Seyiejalie was awarded Rs 60,000.
Sielie Chüsi of Mezoma village secured third place and received Rs 40,000, while Zasevikho Meyatsu, also from Mezoma village, finished fourth and took home Rs 30,000.
In the junior category, Thejasezo Sechü emerged champion and was awarded Rs 10,000. Metseilhoukho Zhünyü finished second to receive Rs 7,000, followed by Vimezeto Zinyü in third place with Rs 5,000, while Vikohelie Khate secured fourth place and received Rs 3,000.
A total of 48 wrestlers participated in the senior category, with 12 wrestlers each representing four groups. In the junior category, 16 wrestlers—four from each group—took part in the competition.
Altogether, 13 wrestlers representing WAYO were selected to compete in the upcoming Angami Sports Association (ASA) Wrestling Meet scheduled to be held on February 20.
The selected wrestlers are Keneiselie Khawakhrie, Zasevikho Meyatsu, Sielie Chüsi, Kevizhakho Suokhrie, Khriesavito Nakhro, Kevinguzo Nagi, Seyiezhato Sano, Seyiejalie Gwirie, Visedelhou Chüsi, Mhiesolieto Kuotsu, Kezhalhoulue Savino, Rokolhouto Suokhrie and Neizelhouto Suohumvü.
The WAYO wrestling team will be coached by Seyielhukho Naprantsu, with Keleselhou Chüsi as team manager, Kekhriezo Nagi as technical coach, and Metsibizo Meyase as team physio.
Meanwhile, WAYO wrestlers selected in the under-15 category for upcoming ASA meet are Vikohelie Khate, Vimezoto Zinyü, Metseilhoukho Zhünyü and Thejasezo Sechü.
Earlier, the inaugural programme of the meet was held with Commissioner and Secretary Kovi Meyase as the special guest, while the closing ceremony was graced by Western Angami Public Organisation president Theyievilie Suohumvü as the guest of honour.