Anticipation has reached new heights as the 52nd Angami Sports Association (ASA) wrestling championship draws closer, which is set to take place at Khuochiezie (local ground) in Kohima, on Saturday. Top wrestlers from the Angami community are gearing up for the prestigious title, with defending champion Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü prepared to face a formidable array of challengers.
Representing the four ranges, reigning champions include Kezhaseluo-o Pineyü from the Northern Angami Sports Association (NASA), Atuo Tevo from the Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA), Seyiejalie Gwirie from the Western Angami Sports Association (WAYO), and Keneisetuo Kire from the Chakhroma Youth Organisation (CYO).
The tournament will kick off with WAYO wrestlers facing SASA wrestlers and NASA wrestlers against CYO in the first round. Subsequently, SASA wrestlers will grapple with CYO wrestlers while WAYO wrestlers will face NASA in the second round. In the third round, NASA wrestlers will take on SASA, and CYO will battle WAYO.
With 60 competitors set to vie for the title, spectators can expect thrilling matches and intense competition throughout the event. An estimated crowd of 16,000 wrestling enthusiasts is anticipated to converge, creating an atmosphere charged with excitement and energy.
The event will commence with an inaugural ceremony to be graced by Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio as the chief guest and Dr. Tseilhoutuo Rhütso, MLA as the guest of honor. Ticket rates for the wrestling event are as follows: Rs. 2000 for donors, Rs. 500 for balcony and chair A categories, Rs. 200 for chair B, and Rs. 100 for chair C.