New Delhi/Gonda,14 May (H.S.): Pro Wrestling League (PWL) has once again proven that it has become the biggest platform for the development of Indian wrestling and honing talents. In the Senior Open Ranking Wrestling Tournament held in Gonda from May 10 to 12, 2026, several wrestlers who participated in PWL Season-5 delivered stellar performances, clinched medals, and strengthened their claims for selection trials for the upcoming World Championships and Commonwealth Championships.
PWL-affiliated wrestlers dominated the tournament, clearly demonstrating that the league is playing a key role in providing high-level competition and international exposure to Indian wrestlers, preparing them for major platforms.
In the men's freestyle category, UP Dominators' Sagar won the gold medal with an outstanding performance in the 57 kg weight class. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Kesari's Yash Toshniwal showcased brilliant skills to claim the gold medal in the 74 kg category.
Yash Toshniwal's victory was particularly inspiring. The former World Junior bronze medalist had been battling serious injuries for the past two years. He underwent a long rehabilitation process due to injuries to his knee, shoulder, and toe. However, in Gonda, he made a splendid comeback by winning five consecutive bouts to secure the gold medal, signaling that he is ready to represent India on the international stage once again.
Tigers of Mumbai Dangals' Naveen won the gold medal in the 79 kg category, while Indian wrestling star Deepak Punia added another achievement to his illustrious career by clinching gold in the 92 kg category. Deepak had represented Maharashtra Kesari in PWL Season-5.
In the women's category, Delhi Dangal Warriors' Anjali displayed her talent by winning the silver medal in the 62 kg category and strengthening her position in the race for national team selection.
These achievements have once again proven that PWL is providing an effective platform for Indian wrestlers to prove themselves in high-pressure matches and prepare for world-class competition.
PWL CEO and Promoter Akhil Gupta said the league's aim is to give Indian wrestling a new identity on the global stage. He added that by bringing international stars, Olympians, and emerging wrestlers from the country to compete on one platform, PWL is building a strong wrestling ecosystem in the country.
Notably, earlier this year, PWL Season-5 was held at Noida Indoor Stadium with six franchise teams — Tigers of Mumbai Dangals, Haryana Thunders, Maharashtra Kesari, UP Dominators, Punjab Royals, and Delhi Dangal Warriors — participating. Haryana Thunders won the title in this season.
PWL's impact is evident even on the international stage. Of the 17 medals won by India at the recently held Senior Asian Wrestling Championships, 11 were secured by PWL-affiliated wrestlers, underscoring the league's crucial role in elevating Indian wrestling to new heights.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
