Traditional Wrestlers Unite Against Destructive Politics in Wrestling

Traditional Wrestlers Unite Against Destructive Politics in Wrestling

Lahore – 12 September 2025: A group of Traditional Wrestlers, under the leadership of Bashir Bhola Pehlwan, legendary wrestler, former Rustam-e-Pakistan and National Champion (Lahore), Riaz Pehlwan, Sitara-e-Pakistan (Gujranwala), and Usman Majeed Billo Pehlwan (Sheikhupura), gathered to raise their voices against the negative role of Arshad Sattar, the self-declared President of the Pakistan Wrestling Federation. According to the wrestlers, Mr. Arshad Sattar has, over the years, held various positions within the federation and consistently acted in ways that served his own personal interests rather than the development of wrestling in Pakistan. They alleged that his actions not only weakened the organizational structure of the federation but also deprived genuine athletes of their opportunities. The wrestlers reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the honor and integrity of wrestling, vowing to continue their struggle against such practices and to restore the sport’s rightful place in Pakistan. They emphasized that the future of wrestling belongs to athletes and the community, not to individuals pursuing personal benefits.