Kerala Dominates at 4th National Armwrestling Championship

Kerala has successfully defended its title at the 4th National Armwrestling & Para-Armwrestling Championship, showcasing exceptional talent and thrilling matches. Yuvraj Verma stood out by winning the Senior Men's Champion of Champions title, while Madhura Hassan claimed the women's equivalent. The event featured surprising upsets, including Aabhas Rana's victory over the undefeated Mazahir Saidu. Preeti Jhangiani, President of PAFI, praised the depth of talent in Indian armwrestling, highlighting the championship as a platform for athletes to excel.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 3, 2026, 15:06 IST

Kerala's Triumph in Armwrestling

Photo: IANS

Gandhinagar, June 3: Kerala has once again claimed the title of overall champions at the 4th National Armwrestling & Para-Armwrestling Championship, successfully defending their title with the highest medal tally for the second consecutive year.

The event was organized by the Armwrestling Sports Association of Gujarat, under the leadership of President Rajendrasinh Parmar and Treasurer Mayank Patel, in collaboration with the People's Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI).

Yuvraj Verma emerged as a key performer, securing the title of Senior Men's Champion of Champions. He began by winning the 110 kg category and continued his impressive run by defeating champions from lighter weight classes, including Denic Lalruattluanga (90 kg), Vethozo Lohe (85 kg), and ultimately Aabhas Rana (100 kg) in the grand finale, thus earning the coveted Champion of Champions title. Yuvraj also achieved a remarkable feat by clinching gold in both the right-hand and left-hand 110 kg categories.

In the women's competition, Madhura Hassan claimed the Women's Champion of Champions title after overcoming K Lalhriatpuii from Mizoram in the final match.

The championship was filled with exciting moments and unexpected outcomes. A notable highlight was 18-year-old Aabhas Rana, who stunned the audience by defeating the previously unbeaten Mazahir Saidu in the 100 kg final, marking the end of Saidu's long reign.

Additionally, Kerala's Joshya J made headlines in the women's category by winning gold and defeating two of India's leading armwrestlers, Yogesh Chaudhary and Nirmal Devi.

After the championship, Preeti Jhangiani, President of PAFI and Vice President of the Asian Armwrestling Federation (AAF), remarked, "This championship has highlighted the remarkable talent present in Indian armwrestling. We witnessed established champions defending their titles alongside young athletes creating upsets, showcasing the future of the sport. We are proud to offer a platform for athletes from diverse backgrounds to compete and shine."