Nagaland: Kezhaseluo-o wins Hornbill Int’l Naga Wrestling title

26-year-old Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü emerged as the champion of the 18th Hornbill International Naga Wrestling Championship 2025, held on Thursday at Kimipfüphe Ground, Kigwema. With this victory, Pienyü claimed the title for the third time, having earlier won in 2021 and 2022.
Pienyü defeated Thüputha Hesüh in the final match of the Open category to take home a cash prize of Rs. 70,000, while Hesüh received Rs. 50,000. Waku K Tara and Mulusü Veswüh who were placed in the semi-finalists, each awarded Rs. 10,000.
In the 90 kg and below category, Kevizhakho Suokhrie secured the title with two clean bouts, overcoming Sasüyi Nyekha in the final. Suokhrie received Rs. 40,000 and Nyekha Rs. 20,000, while semifinalists Sotilo Seb and Jochukyu Semy earned Rs. 10,000 each.
In the provisional category, Sentilong Imchen emerged champion after defeating Yimkumsoshi Pongen. Imchen walked away with Rs. 30,000 and Pongen with Rs. 20,000, while semifinalists Seyiejalie Gwirie and Basayi Keyho received Rs. 10,000 each.
In the women’s category, Vizoseno Kiso clinched the title, earning Rs. 20,000. Runner-up Lutholu Vezüh received Rs. 10,000, while Vikehienuo Zumvü and Helivi Sheqi, as semifinalists, were awarded Rs. 5,000 each.
Altogether, 55 wrestlers representing 10 Naga tribes participated in the championship, organised by the Naga Wrestling Association (NWA) and sponsored by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports.
Addressing the gathering, special guest and Kevipodi Sophie, MLA said the championship was an event that celebrated not just strength and skill, but also the rich heritage and identity of the Naga people. He highlighted that Naga wrestling embodies discipline, respect and resilience, instilling values of dedication, clean competition and personal growth among youth.
Sophie noted that Naga wrestling has grown from a traditional village sport to one attracting international attention, and expressed optimism about its global potential. He said the government was taking deliberate steps to elevate the sport internationally through improved training facilities, athlete support, promotion at global forums, and documentation and digitalisation of its history.
He further encouraged all major tribes of Nagaland to embrace and participate in the sport, adding that its legacy grows stronger when all communities compete together. He called upon the NWA to broaden participation beyond the Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang communities.
The ceremony was chaired by NWA vice president Viketouzo Meyase. The flag was unfurled by Er Lhoubeizo Kesiyie, Advisor, NWA, and the oath was administered by Vekhriyi Chuzo, Technical Secretary, NWA.
The programme began with an invocation by Rev. Mekhale Yhoshü, pastor of Kigwema Baptist Church, followed by a special song presented by renowned musician Neilaü Thaphrü. The event concluded with the prize distribution led by Advisor NWA Dr. Hiabe Zeliang.