Nagaland Traditional Belt Wrestling Association, led by its president Menuosetuo Yiese, achieved a remarkable feat at the Kushti Ka Mahasanghram National Traditional Wrestling Championship 2025–26 held at Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, on January 6 and 7, 2026. The team brought home a total of 14 medals, including 11 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze.
Apart from the medal winners, Keluonguzo Keretsü and Neisazo Dzüvichü were recognized as certified national referees for belt wrestling, further strengthening Nagaland’s presence in the sport.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the association, president Yiese thanked president of the Traditional Wrestling Association of India, Sudest Kumar, for his continuous support and guidance to Team Nagaland.
Yiese also informed that in a meeting with the president of International Belt Wrestling Association (IBWA) Khabir Khabibullin, the IBWA has expressed possibilities on Belt Wrestling and Naga Wrestling development at global level.
Medal Winners
Mas Wrestling: Mezhiivotuo Kire – Gold; Bodevi Kire – Gold; Nouletuo Rame – Gold; Khriekethozo Keretsü – Gold; Mengulhoulie Linyü – Gold; Kediselie Kire – Bronze; Dziesevolie Rutsa – Silver.
Belt Wrestling: Mezhüvotuo Kire – Gold; Bodevi Kire – Gold; Kediselie Kire – Gold; Nouletuo Rame – Gold; Khriekethozo Keretsü – Gold; Dziesevolie Rutsa – Gold; Mengulhoulie Linyü – Silver.
Nagaland wrestlers shine at National Traditional Wrestling C’ship
DIMAPUR, JAN 8 (NPN)