Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA) wrestlers won five gold and one bronze at the All India Traditional Wrestling Pankration Federation (AITWPF) National Federation Cup 2025 which culminated on May 4 at Jaipur, Rajasthan.

The NWA team, led by president Vivolie Kezo along with three wrestlers participated in the 4- day long tournament. The Naga wrestlers participated in Senior Men’s Belt & Mas Wrestling categories.
Wrestler Kezhaselu-o Pienyü won gold in both Belt and Mas Wrestling in 100+ Kg while Venu Vadeo also clinched gold in both Belt and Mas Wrestling in under 100 kg weight category, and  Nlumrai Hegwang won gold in Belt Wrestling and bronze in Mas Wrestling in under 80 Kg category.
A press note from NWA said all three Naga wrestlers officiated the wrestling matches at the championships and were accorded Qualified National Referee Licenses. They are now eligible to conduct upcoming National Championship matches in future.

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The NWA also stated to have showcased the Naga Style Wrestling during the National Federation Cup final day. The NWA wrestlers demonstrated live the Naga traditional wrestling style and video clips of the sport was displayed, which reportedly drew the attention of the participating wrestlers from across the country and officials as well.

The AITWPF said to have observed the need to promote the Naga Wrestling to take it forward in the forthcoming National and International Championships with support from the other state wrestling associations as well.
Meanwhile, NWA president Kezo conveyed appreciation to all the wrestling enthusiasts from Nagaland and beyond for their support in different forms and further solicited their support in the upcoming endeavours as well.