Sumi Wrestling Association hosts first C’ship-cum-selection trial

The Sumi Wrestling Association (SWA) conducted its maiden Sumi Wrestling Championship-cum-Selection Trial at the Pughoboto local ground on February 25, marking a significant milestone for the newly formed body.
A total of 14 male wrestlers competed, with eight earning selection to represent SWA at the state-level competition. In the final bout, Avika Zhimo of Ighanumi Village defeated Pukiye G. Shohe of Shesulimi to claim the championship title. Inito Swu of Ighanumi secured third place after defeating Bosco Swu of Mukalimi.
Special guest president of Sumi Aphuyemi Kükami Hoho, Akükau Qhutovi Tenna, lauded the association’s initiative in promoting wrestling and motivating young athletes. He urged the community to work hard and bring pride to the Sumi people through sports.
The event, chaired by SWA treasurer Y. Toniho Wotsa, began with an invocation by Associate Pastor of Pughoboto Town Baptist Church, Ikuto Swu, followed by an oath-taking ceremony administered by vice president and technical head of SWA, Khumtsa Swu.
SWA president N. Kitoshe Kiho highlighted the association’s vision of fostering unity and promoting wrestling within the Sumi community. Established on July 30, 2024, the SWA has already participated in major events such as the Hornbill International Festival (2024 and 2025) and the NWA Championship 2025. The current championship served as a selection trial for the upcoming Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) Provisional Unit Championship 2026, scheduled for March 6 at Kohima local ground.
All together 8 wrestlers were selected for NWA Provisional Unit Championship 2026.
The NWA Provisional Unit Championship will feature competitors from six tribal units – Sumi, Rengma, Lotha, Chang, Pochury and Sangtam – with prize categories ranging from Rs. 2 lakh for first place to Rs. 5,000 for all participants.
Concluding the programme, president Kiho appealed to the Sumi community to support wrestling, emphasizing its potential to grow into a professional discipline and encouraging youth to actively contribute to the sport’s development in the region.