Kohima: In a thrilling display of strength and skill, prominent Naga wrestler Venuzo Dawhuo reaffirmed his dominance in the wrestling arena by clinching the championship title at the 29th Chakhesang Wrestling Association (CWA) championship, held in Chozuba town under Phek district, Nagaland.
The event, witnessed by a vibrant crowd of 16,000 spectators, saw Dawhuo, representing the Chokri Area Wrestling Association, etch his name in history as the first wrestler to secure the Chakhesang championship for the fourth consecutive year.
Hailing from Thenyizu village, the 27-year-old Dawhuo, weighing 105 kgs and standing tall at 5.10 ft, defeated his formidable opponent, Vemele Thingo, in a fiercely contested final match. Thingo, representing the same association, put up a valiant fight but ultimately succumbed to Dawhuo’s prowess on the wrestling mat.
The two-time champion of the Nagaland Wrestling Championship and five-time winner of the Chokri Area Wrestling Association defeated Mulechiyi Vadeo, Basayi Keyho, Kuvenu Puro, Rukulhu Pheseo, and Huluyi D Vadeo in the initial rounds.
In the third-place match, 24-year-old Rukukhoto Khusoh (Chozuba Range Wrestling Association) beat Huluyi D Vadeo (Secheku Wrestling Association).
The top four winners received a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh, Rs 1.7 lakh, Rs 1.3 lakh, Rs 1 lakh respectively while the four quarter finalists received Rs 15,000 each.
Phek Area Wrestling Association emerged as the group winner, amassing a total of 105 points, while Secheku Wrestling Association was recognied for its exemplary discipline.
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In the midst of electrifying matches, the 3rd Under 16 Meet also witnessed fierce competition, with Khrethoveyi emerging victorious over Khrüzo Tetseo to claim the championship title. Nüo Swüro secured the third position, with Ngosa Tunyi securing fourth place.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton and Advisor CAWD and Taxes, Kudecho Khamo. Deputy Chief Minister Patton emphasised the importance of nurturing talent from across the state, stressing the role of wrestling in promoting camaraderie and cultural heritage.
Also Read | ‘Fighting’ a brother: Why is Naga wrestling so special and important?