Who Is the Champion of Wrestling in India?

Wrestling, a sport deeply rooted in Indian culture, has a long and illustrious history in the country. Over the years, numerous wrestlers have emerged as champions and gained immense popularity both nationally and internationally. Today, we will take a closer look at some of the most prominent champions who have made their mark in Indian wrestling.

The Great Khali – A Force to be Reckoned With

The Great Khali, also known as Dalip Singh Rana, is one of the most recognized names in Indian wrestling. Standing at an imposing height of 7 feet 1 inch, he became a household name not only in India but also worldwide.

Khali’s journey to becoming a champion began when he won the Mr. India title in 1995 for bodybuilding. He then ventured into professional wrestling and signed with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

During his time with WWE, Khali achieved significant success. In 2007, he became the first Indian World Heavyweight Champion when he defeated Batista. This historic victory made him an inspiration for aspiring wrestlers across the country and opened doors for more Indian wrestlers to enter the international arena.

Sushil Kumar – The Olympic Medalist

Sushil Kumar, hailing from a small village in Haryana, is another iconic name in Indian wrestling. He has brought tremendous glory to the nation through his remarkable achievements on both national and international platforms. Kumar’s journey to becoming a champion began when he won his first international gold medal at the Commonwealth Championship in 2003.

Kumar’s most notable achievement came in 2008 when he won a bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics, becoming the first Indian wrestler to win an Olympic medal since Khashaba Dadasaheb Jadhav in 1952. He continued to make history by winning a silver medal at the London Olympics in 2012, cementing his position as one of the greatest Indian wrestlers of all time.

Bajrang Punia – Rising Star of Indian Wrestling

Bajrang Punia is a young and promising wrestler who has taken the Indian wrestling scene by storm. Hailing from Jhajjar, Haryana, Punia has consistently performed exceptionally well in various international tournaments. He has won multiple medals at the Asian Championships, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships.

Punia’s breakthrough moment came in 2018 when he won a gold medal at the Asian Games held in Jakarta. This victory made him only the fifth Indian wrestler to win an individual gold medal at the Asian Games. With his exceptional skills and determination, Punia is undoubtedly a future champion who has already made India proud.

In Conclusion

These are just a few names that have left an indelible mark on Indian wrestling. The sport continues to evolve with new champions emerging and pushing boundaries. The Great Khali, Sushil Kumar, and Bajrang Punia are shining examples of individuals who have brought glory to India through their passion for wrestling and their unwavering dedication to becoming champions.