Pro Wrestling League Aims to Surpass IPL's Impact on Indian Wrestling

Akhil Gupta's Vision for PWL

Akhil Gupta, the CEO of the Pro Wrestling League (PWL), has expressed his strong belief that the league will significantly enhance the wrestling scene in India, potentially surpassing the influence of the Indian Premier League (IPL) on cricket.

After a seven-year break, PWL, which is recognized as India's leading franchise-based professional wrestling league sanctioned by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), made a triumphant return in 2026, concluding its revamped fifth season with notable success, solidifying its reputation as a premier sporting event in the country.

PWL's Potential Impact Compared to IPL

In an interview, Gupta highlighted that the Pro Wrestling League could create a more substantial impact on wrestling than the IPL has had on cricket, especially regarding its growth and popularity. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has revolutionized cricket in India, discovering new talent, providing domestic players with opportunities alongside international stars, and significantly enhancing the sport's popularity and financial success. Today, the IPL is recognized as the largest and most influential T20 league globally.

Gupta noted that cricket had already gained immense popularity following India's historic World Cup victory in 1983, with the IPL elevating the sport further. As a cricket enthusiast, he emphasized that wrestling's unpredictable nature makes it an even more thrilling sport, where outcomes can change dramatically in the final moments.

Haryana Thunders Triumph in PWL 2026

The 2026 season of PWL concluded with Haryana Thunders emerging as champions, taking home the prestigious trophy and a prize of Rs 1.5 crore. The runners-up, Delhi Dangal Warriors, finished their campaign with Rs 75 lakh in prize money.

Empowering Young Wrestlers

Gupta emphasized that the Pro Wrestling League is instrumental in providing young Indian wrestlers with invaluable exposure by facilitating training and interaction with top international athletes and Olympic medalists. He shared the example of Kajal Dhochak, who spent a month training with Olympic medalist Yui Sasaki from Japan while on the Haryana Thunders team, gaining essential techniques and confidence.

He further mentioned that many Indian wrestlers benefited from training alongside elite athletes, such as Aman Sehrawat from the Mumbai Dangals, describing this exchange of knowledge as one of the league's most significant achievements ahead of major competitions like the 2026 Asian Games.

Gupta stated, 'After PWL, many new wrestlers will emerge, training with international players. We have a good chance of improving our medal tally as well. The Asian Games are approaching, and the exposure gained from spending time with Olympic medalists like Yui Sasaki is invaluable.'