In a landmark development for Naga Wrestling, India has been proposed as the host country for the UWW World Belt Wrestling Championship 2026, featuring Alysh Belt Wrestling and Naga Wrestling.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for hosting the prestigious championship was signed on September 6 at Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan, between the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA), All India Traditional Wrestling & Pankration Federation (AITWPF), World Alysh Federation (WAF) and Asian Alysh Federation (AAF).

The proposed championship is tentatively scheduled to be held from December 14 to 19, 2026.

The agreement marks a significant step towards bringing a major international wrestling championship to India and providing Naga Wrestling with a platform on the global stage. It is also being seen as a major milestone for the promotion and recognition of the traditional wrestling discipline beyond Nagaland.

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The development comes as the Naga Wrestling team is currently in Kyrgyzstan to participate in the 6th World Nomad Games 2026 under the leadership of NWA president Vivolie Kezo, under the aegis of AITWPF.

Naga Wrestling was officially demonstrated on September 5 at Kyrgyz Gorge, Kyrgyzstan, as part of the Demonstration Games category of the World Nomad Games 2026.

The demonstration of Naga Wrestling at an international sporting event, followed by the MoU for hosting the UWW World Belt Wrestling Championship in India, is expected to further enhance the visibility of the indigenous wrestling tradition and strengthen its international presence.

The NWA said the proposed championship would be a proud moment not only for Nagaland and India but also for the future of Naga Wrestling, as the traditional sport seeks greater recognition and participation at the international level.

The Naga Wrestling contingent is scheduled to return to Nagaland on October 8, 2026.