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JAKHAMA — Keleseo Meze (28) won the Jakhama Youth Organisation's 63rd Wrestling Meet (Senior) after a thrilling battle with Kethohol Thao (23) on Wednesday at the Jakhama local ground.
Meze, who stands at 5'10" and weighs 91 kg, defeated his formidable opponent Thao, who stands at 5'8" and weighs 76 kg, in the final bout to win the prestigious title.
In a display of skill and strength, Meze swiftly took down Thao in the initial bout. Thao, on the other hand, retaliated and brought Meze down, bringing the score to 1-1 in less than a minute.
Undaunted, Meze seized an opportunity in the third bout after a 30-second break, quickly executing a decisive move that brought Thao to the mat in a thrilling 8-second match, eventually securing the championship.
Metevito Zao won the third position title by defeating Vimechiezo Zhotso in two straight bouts.
In a closely contested match, Thajavizo Khazo defeated Vimethakho Khatso 2-1 to claim the junior championship title.
Nochosal Zhotso won the third position title with a 2-0 straight-up victory over Kevizeto Kirha.
The winner of the senior division received INR 15,000, the second place holder received INR 12,000, the third place holder received INR 8,000, and the fourth place holder received INR 5000.
In the junior category, the winner received INR 4,000, the second place holder received INR 3,000, the third place holder received INR 2,000, and the fourth place holder received INR 1000.
Spectators also generously donated money to various wrestlers in recognition of their skill and performance.
Ruokuosetuo Tetso, the EAC of Tseminyu district, attended the event as a special guest and emphasised the rapid advancements occurring in education and sports.
Stating that success in life is linked to being God-fearing and obedient to both teachers and parents, Tetso said it was important that players demonstrate honesty, discipline, and respect for their officials, bringing honour to their parents and villages.
Drawing on examples, he discussed how renowned athletes attribute their success to a disciplined upbringing instilled in them from childhood.
He cited the achievements of 43-year-old Rohan Bopanna of India, who recently achieved the prestigious title of World No. 1 in the ATP men's doubles rankings, becoming the oldest grand slam winner. He also emphasised the extraordinary qualities and discipline of prominent players, such as international football icon Lionel Messi, who is said to earn around INR 1,84,00,000 per year.
Focusing on the indigenous sport of Naga wrestling, which has been passed down through generations as a form of camaraderie, he noted a recent dearth of emerging from Jakhama. He also said that wrestling is a bonding experience in which wrestlers form new friendships and bring honour to their clans, titles, or villages with their performances.
Stating that wrestling is now among the most respectable sports, the official emphasised the importance of pioneers and former champions adhering to principles of obedience towards parents and fellow villagers.
Furthermore, he urged wrestlers to respect their opponents and maintain a sportsmanlike attitude towards spectators in order to represent their village in higher-level competitions.
During the event, Vishuthazo Kirha, president of Jakhama Youth Organisation, extended greetings, while Rokovizo Meze, president of the Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA), informed attendees about the upcoming 62nd SASA sports meet, which will take place in Kigwema from February 8 to the 10th.
The wrestling event began with an invocation by pastor Puzoto Sophie, followed by an oath-taking ceremony led by Mezizoto Tetso.
The opening ceremony was chaired by Shuto Khieya, and Hokezoto Kirha performed a song, followed by a vote of thanks from Sweyievi Sophie.