Pro Wrestling League 2026 begins with Punjab Royals’ narrow win over UP Dominators

The Pro Wrestling League (PWL), setting the tone for the fifth season of the league, started with an electrifying opening contest between Punjab Royals and UP Dominators. In a tightly contested tie, Punjab Royals edged past UP Dominators 5–4 to register their first win of the campaign.

Chander Mohan of Punjab Royals produced one of the standout performances of the night, scripting a stunning comeback against UP Dominators’ Arman Andreasyan in the opening men’s 74kg bout. Mohan’s resilience and tactical brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award.

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The tie was decided in dramatic fashion after UP Dominators’ Hansika Lamba was unable to compete in the final bout of the match. Her withdrawal resulted in a forfeit, allowing Punjab Royals’ Antim Panghal to be awarded the win and seal the contest for her side.

UP Dominators, however, enjoyed a dominant moment through Nisha Dahiya, who was named Fighter of the Match for her emphatic performance in the women’s 62 kg category. Dahiya overwhelmed Punjab Royals captain Ana Godinez, securing a commanding 22-4 victory by technical superiority.

Punjab continued to build momentum in the women’s 76 kg category, where India’s Priya Malik showcased composure and control to defeat Mansi Lather 5-1, adding crucial points to her team’s tally.

UP Dominators struck back in the men’s 65 kg bout as Vishal Kali Raman delivered a commanding 14–3 win over Islam Guseinov. Raman dominated with multiple takedowns in the opening period and finished strongly during the Power Minute to underline his technical superiority.

The decisive blow came in the men’s heavyweight 125 kg bout, where Dinesh Dhankhar of Punjab Royals defeated Jaspooran Singh 3-0. The disciplined victory secured an unassailable 5-3 lead for Punjab, confirming their overall win even before the final bout.

The Pro Wrestling League 2026 continues on January 16, with Maharashtra Kesari set to face Delhi Dangal Warriors, followed by Punjab Royals taking on Haryana Thunders. The matches are scheduled to begin at 6 pm IST.