Golden Grapplers: India Clinches Six Golds in Men’s Freestyle at U23 Asian Wrestling Championships
The Indian men’s freestyle contingent delivered a commanding performance at the U23 Asian Wrestling Championships 2025, held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, clinching six gold medals and showcasing the depth of talent in the country’s next generation of wrestlers.
From dominant technical superiority wins to gritty comebacks, Indian wrestlers were a class apart across multiple weight categories, firmly asserting themselves as a regional powerhouse in U23 freestyle wrestling.
Nikhil Dethrones the Champion in 61kg
India’s golden charge began with Nikhil in the 61kg category, who produced a clinical display to defeat defending champion Merey Bazarbayev of Kazakhstan with a scoreline of 7-2 in the final. The bout reflected Nikhil’s superior strategy and mat awareness, as he neutralized Bazarbayev’s attacks and capitalized on every opening.
It was a statement win, not only because of the score but because of the opponent Bazarbayev entered the match as a favourite, having been the gold medallist in the previous edition. Nikhil’s performance now places him among the most exciting upcoming names in the Indian freestyle circuit.
Sujeet Kalkal Clinches Second Asian U23 Title
Sujeet Kalkal, already a decorated wrestler at the junior and U23 levels, reaffirmed his dominance in the 65kg category. He outclassed Uzbekistan’s Umidjon Jalolov with a resounding 10-0 technical superiority victory, finishing the bout early with relentless aggression.
This marks Sujeet’s second U23 Asian title, and his ability to maintain consistency on the continental stage speaks volumes about his preparation and competitive mindset. Sujeet, who has previously represented India at senior events as well, now strengthens his case for future World Championship and Olympic qualification bids.
Jaideep Upgrades to Gold in 74kg
In the 74kg final, Jaideep completed his redemption arc with a dominant performance over Zafarbek Otakhonov of Uzbekistan. Having won silver in the previous edition, Jaideep entered this year’s championship with a point to prove—and he did so emphatically by securing a pinfall win.
Jaideep looked in control throughout the match and made a decisive move in the second period to pin Otakhonov. His progression from silver to gold is a testament to his hard work and development over the past year.
Chandermohan Dominates in 79kg
The 79kg category saw Chandermohan emerge victorious with a solid 5-2 win over Begenjov of Turkmenistan. The Indian wrestler controlled the tempo of the match, mixing aggressive forward movement with tight defensive positioning.
Though the final wasn’t as lopsided as some of the others, Chandermohan’s maturity in managing the bout and preventing any comeback opportunities was notable. His title adds to India’s growing influence in the middleweight divisions.
Sachin Shines in 92kg Final
Sachin rounded off a stellar campaign in the 92kg division by defeating Tumurbaatar of Mongolia 5-2 in a composed and strategic final. The Indian wrestler scored key points through calculated takedowns and stayed ahead throughout the match.
For Sachin, the title was the result of consistent wrestling through the tournament, where he looked one of the most technically sound competitors. His ability to absorb pressure and counterattack decisively proved crucial in the gold medal match.
Vicky Produces Thrilling Comeback in 97kg
The final Indian gold of the day came in the 97kg division, where Vicky staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Nurdaulet Bekenov of Kazakhstan by pinfall. Trailing in the early moments, Vicky stayed composed and found an opening to flip the match on its head, pinning his opponent to claim the title.
Vicky’s victory was one of the highlights of the tournament for India. His grit and fightback in a high-pressure final underscore the mental toughness that defines elite wrestlers at this level.
Summary of India’s Results Men’s Freestyle Gold Medalists
- 61 kg – 🥇 Nikhil defeated Merey Bazarbayev (KAZ) 7-2
- 65 kg – 🥇 Sujeet Kalkal defeated Umidjon Jalolov (UZB) 10-0
- 74 kg – 🥇 Jaideep defeated Zafarbek Otakhonov (UZB) via pinfall
- 79 kg – 🥇 Chandermohan defeated Begenjov (TKM) 5-2
- 92 kg – 🥇 Sachin defeated Tumurbaatar (MGL) 5-2
- 97 kg – 🥇 Vicky defeated Nurdaulet Bekenov (KAZ) via pinfall
A Statement of Depth and Development
India’s six gold medals in freestyle wrestling at the U23 Asian Championships reflect not just individual brilliance but a systematic improvement in coaching, infrastructure, and international exposure. Many of these wrestlers train at national camps under elite coaches, and their performances are indicators that India’s wrestling pipeline remains strong across weight categories.
With the Paris 2024 Olympic cycle nearing its final stretch, performances like these build hope—not just for the U23 World Championships, but for senior-level progression as well. For now, India’s young wrestlers have made their presence felt across Asia, and they’re just getting started.
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