Nagaland: First Sumi Naga Wrestling C’ship held

Kohima: The first Sumi Wrestling Association Championship-cum-Selection Trial for the upcoming NWA Provisional Unit Championship was held at Pughoboto Local Ground, witnessing intense competition among 14 Sumi wrestlers.

The championship served as a selection trial to choose representatives for the 1st NWA Provisional Unit Championship, scheduled to be held on March 6, 2026, at Kohima Local Ground under the aegis of the Nagaland Wrestling Association (NWA).

In the final bout, Avika Zhimo of Ighanumi Village emerged as the champion after defeating Pukiye G Shohe of Shesulimi. In the third-place playoff, Inito Swu of Ighanumi secured victory over Bosco Swu of Mukalimi.

A total of eight wrestlers were selected to represent the Sumi Wrestling Association at the forthcoming championship. The selected wrestlers are Avika Zhimo, Pukiye G Shohe, Inito Swu, Bosco Swu, Itobo Zhimo, Botovi Achumi, Hokito Zhimo and Ahobo Kiho.

The Provisional Units under the NWA include Sumi, Rengma, Lotha, Chang, Pochury and Sangtam.

The prize categories for the 1st NWA Provisional Unit Championship are as follows: the winner will receive Rs 2 lakh, the second place finisher Rs 1 lakh, third place Rs 80,000 and fourth place Rs 60,000. Quarterfinalists will receive Rs 10,000 each, while all participants will be awarded Rs 5,000 each.

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