Dimapur, 18 March (MTNews): 26-year old Venuzo Dawhuo successfully defended his title for the second time by defeating Kezhaseluo-o Pienyü in the final of the 14th Naga Open Wrestling Championship 2023 played here at Multi Disciplinary Sports Complex on Saturday.
In the final, both Dawhuo and Kezhaseluo won a bout each, but it was the reigning champ Dawhuo who overpowered the Angami champ Pienyu in the third round to lift the title again. With this title, he has won three times in the open wrestling championship. Dawhuo is also defending champion of Naga Wrestling Championship winning two times.
The champion Dawhuo hails from Thenyizu village under Phek district, while Pienyu is from Kohima village under Kohima district. Dawhuo received a cash prize of Rs 210000 and Pienyu Rs 160000.
The third position winner Huluyi Huluyi D Vadeo of Sakraba and fourth position winner Thejapfutuo Chusi of Mezoma won Rs 110000 and Rs 80000 respectively.
A total of 56 wrestlers including a representative each from Ao, Lotha, Sumi and Bihar communities competed in the wrestling championship.