Nagaland Venuzo crowned champion of 3rd CWA Open

Venuzo Dawhuo of Thenyizu village emerged as the champion of the 3rd Senior and 2nd Under-15 Open Nagaland Traditional Wrestling Championship, organised by the Chakhesang Wrestling Association (CWA) under the aegis of the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA), at Pfütsero Sports Complex on Friday.
In the closely contested final bout of the senior category, Dawhuo defeated Venu Vade-o to claim the title and walked away with a cash prize of Rs. 2 lakh. Vade-o, the runner-up, received Rs. 1.2 lakh. Rukukhuto Khusoh secured third place and received Rs. 70,000, while Keneiselie Khawakhrie finished fourth with Rs. 50,000. The four quarter-finalists—Huluyi D. Vadeo, Thuputha Hesuh, Krulhuto Venyo, and Mulusu Veswu were each awarded Rs. 10,000.
In the Under-15 category, 13-year-old Kutho Puro from Porba village emerged champion and received Rs. 15,000. Lhiwe Ngachu finished second and was awarded Rs. 10,000, while Nehuta Chüzho and Tsuhu Tetseo finished third and fourth, receiving Rs. 7,000 and Rs. 5,000 respectively. The quarter-finalists—Betsho Aruji, Tshete Duolo, Vezhopa Dawhuo, and Munuhu Chuero—each received Rs. 2,000.
The championship drew large crowds and witnessed spirited participation from wrestlers representing various communities, reflecting the growing appeal of traditional Naga wrestling beyond its traditional strongholds.
During the inaugural, Nagaland Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, C.L. John, who graced the event as special guest, underscored the importance of preserving and promoting traditional Naga sports, many of which, he said, are gradually fading in modern times. He expressed happiness that Naga wrestling continues to thrive and remains a source of pride for the people of Nagaland.
The Minister commended the Chakhesang Wrestling Association and the Nagaland Wrestling Association for their efforts in keeping the sport alive and vibrant. He noted that wrestlers from Nagaland have brought recognition to the state both nationally and internationally, and urged that wrestling should be encouraged among other Naga tribes beyond the Angami, Chakhesang, and Zeliang communities.
Calling for wider promotion of the sport, John said wrestling should serve not only as a cultural symbol but also as a viable profession for young athletes. He pointed out that sports today offer opportunities to earn both fame and livelihood.
Speaking on cultural preservation, the Minister noted that while many customs and practices are being forgotten, platforms such as the Hornbill Festival have played an instrumental role in reviving cultural pride and identity.
Highlighting Pfütsero’s natural advantages, John described the region as the “Canaan of Nagaland,” referring to its fertile land and potential in agriculture and animal husbandry. He acknowledged the consistent efforts of the CWA in sustaining traditional wrestling and lauded the State Government under Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio for its continued support towards promoting sports and development in all sectors.
Guest of honour – Director of Tourism, Veyielo Duolo, lauded the participation of wrestlers and supporters from non-wrestling tribes such as the Ao and Lotha communities. He noted that the emergence of new wrestling associations across Nagaland demonstrates the sport’s unifying potential and cultural significance. “Naga wrestling should belong to all Nagas,” he said, adding that the sport fosters unity, discipline and brotherhood.
Announcing a major initiative, Duolo revealed that the Tourism Department, in coordination with the Nagaland Wrestling Association, will launch a Wrestling Festival in January 2026 to further promote the indigenous sport and attract wider participation. He encouraged athletes to cultivate discipline and perseverance, remarking that with the growing number of competitions and recognition, Naga wrestling can indeed evolve into a professional career path.
The awards were handed over by Director of Tourism Veyielo Doulo and Nagaland Wrestling Association president Vivolie Kezo.