Lucknow to host world’s biggest freestyle wrestling show on Uttar Pradesh diwas

Photo: SNS


The city of nawabs is gearing up for an unprecedented sporting spectacle as it prepares to host the world’s biggest freestyle wrestling show, Rannbhoomi 1.0: The Clash of Bahubalis.

Scheduled for January 24, 2026, at the K.D. Singh Babu Stadium, the mega event will mark Uttar Pradesh Diwas with a dazzling fusion of sport, entertainment, and power-packed action.

As part of this transformation, Rannbhoomi 1.0, organized by Wrestling World of Bharat (WWB), is set to redefine India’s wrestling landscape and bring the nation’s age-old tradition of ‘kushti’ to global stage.

For the first time, the capital city will welcome a lineup of world-renowned wrestling icons, including Chris Masters (USA), Joey Legend (Canada), Great Alofa (Samoa/USA), Carlito (Puerto Rico), Zuberi (South Africa), Cowboy J. Storm (USA), and T.J. Tremor (South Africa). Adding to the excitement, India’s own powerhouse performers Tiger Rapta and Barood will represent the country, showcasing Indian wrestling’s strength and spirit before an international audience.

The announcement was made here on Wednesday at a press conference attended by Raj Singh, Founder of Wrestling World of Bharat and Beezer Bonzer World; Mark Beale, Chairman of WWP/WAW (South Africa); Tiger Rapta, World Heavyweight Champion; Anita Singh, Co-founder of WWB; and Hassan Yaqoob, mentor of WWB and Co-Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Development Council, ASSOCHAM.

“This is not just a wrestling show — it’s a mission to revive India’s oldest and most loved sport, wrestling, in a global format. Our goal is to bring our traditional ‘kushti’ heritage to an international platform and showcase India’s true strength through its Bahubalis,” Raj Singh said.

A first-generation entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and anchor, Singh conceptualized the Freestyle Wrestling World of Bharat and The Clash of Bahubalis as a unique blend of India’s cultural essence and international sports entertainment.

Sharing his excitement, Mark Beale, who has organized thousands of wrestling events across more than 50 countries, said, “I’ve always wanted to bring professional freestyle wrestling to India. The energy, culture, and passion here are inspiring. This partnership will build a strong bridge between India and the global wrestling community.” He also hailed Tiger Rapta as “a true symbol of India’s pride and power.”

Welcoming the project, Hassan Yaqoob, renowned corporate strategist and mentor of WWB, said, “Rannbhoomi 1.0 is not just an event, it’s a defining moment for Uttar Pradesh to project its strength, spirit, and global ambition.