Twenty-six year old, Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü emerged as champion of the 18th Hornbill International Wrestling Championship 2025, which was held today at Kimipfüphe Ground, Kigwema. Pienyü has won the title for the third time. He had won earlier in 2021 and 2022.
The 18th Hornbill International Naga Wrestling Championship was organised by the Naga Wrestling Association (NWA) and sponsored by the Department of Youth Resources and Sports.
Pienyü won a cash prize of ₹70,000, while Hesüh received ₹50,000. Waku K Tara and Mulusü Veswüh were adjudged semi-finalists, each awarded ₹10,000.
55 wrestlers from 10 Naga tribes participated in the championship,
In the 90 kg and below category, Kevizhakho Suokhrie secured the title defeating Sasüyi Nyekha in the final. Suokhrie received ₹40,000 and Nyekha ₹20,000, while semifinalists Sotilo Seb and Jochukyu Semy won ₹10,000 each.
In the provisional category, Sentilong Imchen was the champion defeating Yimkumsoshi Pongen. Imchen received ₹30,000 and Pongen ₹20,000, semifinalists Seyiejalie Gwirie and Basayi Keyho received ₹10,000 each.
In women’s category, Vizoseno Kiso won the title receiving ₹20,000. Runner-up Lutholu Vezüh received ₹10,000, while Vikehienuo Zumvü and Helivi Sheqi semifinalists won awarded ₹5,000 each.
MLA Kevipodi Sophie who was the special guest said the event celebrated not just strength and skill, but also the rich heritage and identity of the Naga people.
Sophie said that the Naga wrestling has grown from a traditional village sport to an international event garnering international attention. He said the government is steps to take the sport internationally with improved training facilities, athlete support, promotion at global forums, and documentation and digitalisation of its history.
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Sophie encouraged all major tribes of Nagaland to participate in the sport. He said that its legacy grows stronger when all communities compete together. He called upon the NWA to broaden participation beyond the Angami, Chakhesang and Zeliang communities.
Earlier during the event the championships was chaired by NWA vice president Viketouzo Meyase. The flag was unfurled by Er Lhoubeizo Kesiyie, Advisor, NWA, and the oath was administered by Vekhriyi Chuzo, Technical Secretary, NWA.
The programme began with an invocation by Rev Mekhale Yhoshü, pastor of Kigwema Baptist Church, followed by a special song presented by renowned musician Neilaü Thaphrü. The event concluded with the prize distribution led by Dr Hiabe Zeliang, Advisor, NWA.
