Tiigers of Mumbai Dangals made a resounding statement of intent at the Pro Wrestling League (PWL) Players Auction, assembling a formidable squad built around Olympic bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat as they prepare for their debut season in the league.
With a clear emphasis on pedigree, balance and long-term competitiveness, the Mumbai franchise emerged as one of the most decisive and purposeful teams at the auction table.
Owned by Aspect Sports, the sports arm of Aspect Global Ventures, in partnership with APCO Infratech, the Tiigers entered the auction with a clearly defined blueprint. The focus was on blending elite international experience with India’s best emerging and established wrestlers, ensuring strength across weight categories rather than over-reliance on individual stars. That approach was evident in both their marquee signings and the depth additions that followed.
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The headline acquisition for Mumbai was undoubtedly Aman Sehrawat (57kg), India’s 2024 Paris Olympics bronze medallist, secured for ₹51 lakh. At just 21, Aman already represents the future of Indian wrestling, combining Olympic-level composure with relentless attacking instincts. His presence instantly gives the Tiigers a reliable point-scoring option in one of the most competitive weight categories and establishes a leadership figure despite his young age.
Complementing Aman’s signing was the acquisition of Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khotsianivskyi for ₹33 lakh. The 35-year-old, a former World Championships bronze medallist, brings invaluable experience to the heavyweight 125kg category. In a league format where tactical nous and match management often decide tight contests, Oleksandr’s ability to control bouts and handle pressure situations could prove decisive for the Mumbai outfit. Together, Aman and Oleksandr form the twin pillars of a nine-wrestler unit designed to compete immediately.
The auction strategy reflected the influence of head coach Chandra Vijay Singh, a two-time Pro Wrestling League title winner, whose experience in building championship teams was evident throughout the proceedings. Mumbai consistently targeted wrestlers known for consistency and adaptability rather than short-term flair, a philosophy aligned with the demands of the PWL’s fast-paced team format.
Explaining the importance of the Aman Sehrawat signing, Chandra Vijay Singh said, “Aman is an Olympic medallist and having him in the team will be a huge motivation for the entire squad. He has achieved something extraordinary at such a young age, and his presence raises the overall level of the team. We are happy to have such a talented young Indian wrestler in our unit.”
Beyond the marquee names, Tiigers of Mumbai Dangals quietly strengthened their core with smart domestic signings. They secured 2023 Asian Junior Championships gold medallist Mukul Dahiya (86kg) and 2023 Asian U23 Championships silver medallist Rohit Rahal for ₹8 lakh each, adding youthful energy and future potential to the lineup. Both wrestlers have shown steady progression on the continental stage and offer tactical flexibility across longer league campaigns.
The franchise also paid close attention to building a competitive women’s roster. Ukraine’s 2025 European Championships bronze medallist Alina Filipovic (57kg) and Poland’s Olha Padoshyk (62kg) were brought in to add international depth, while India’s Jyoti Berwal (76kg), a Junior World Championship gold medallist, was acquired for ₹15 lakh. Berwal’s signing, in particular, signals Mumbai’s commitment to nurturing Indian women wrestlers capable of matching elite global standards.
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Speaking after the auction, Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global Ventures and Owner of Tiigers of Mumbai Dangals, emphasised the broader vision behind the squad build. “Building a strong squad was a crucial step in our journey in the Pro Wrestling League. The auction reflects our intent—to invest in quality talent, support athletes with the right environment, and create a team that Mumbai can be proud of. Wrestling has immense potential in India, and we are committed to contributing to its professional growth through this franchise,” she said.
The successful auction outing also marks an important chapter for Aspect Sports, following the recent acquisition of the Mumbai franchise in partnership with APCO Infratech. The move extends the ‘Tiger’ franchise legacy from Kolkata to Mumbai, reinforcing the group’s growing footprint in Indian professional sport.
RP Singh, Director of APCO Infratech, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “The auction marks an important milestone for Tiigers of Mumbai Dangals. The quality of wrestlers selected reflects the seriousness with which this franchise is approaching the league. We look forward to seeing the team perform as the Pro Wrestling League makes its much-awaited return.”
With the Pro Wrestling League set to return after a six-year hiatus, the 2026 season will run from January 16 to February 1, featuring six teams and a blend of India’s finest wrestlers alongside top international names.
For Tiigers of Mumbai Dangals, the auction has laid a solid foundation one that positions them not just as debutants, but as genuine contenders from day one.
