Noida, Feb 2 (NationPress) Pro Wrestling League (PWL) CEO Akhil Gupta expressed his contentment after the triumphant wrap-up of the tournament's fifth edition. He announced that Yui Susaki, the captain of Haryana Thunders who led her team to victory, has confirmed her return for the upcoming season.

Susaki is an exceptionally talented wrestler, having clinched gold in the women's 50 kg category at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics without conceding a single point. Although she faced her first international loss against India's Vinesh Phogat at the Paris 2024 Olympics, she later secured a bronze medal through repechage. Additionally, she boasts four World Championship titles, with her first win achieved in 2017.

Leading Haryana Thunders to triumph in PWL 2026, she was instrumental in securing the trophy as her team triumphed over Delhi Dangal Warriors in a thrilling final held at the Noida Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

Gupta emphasized the importance of Susaki's commitment to the league, highlighting its growing popularity. "Beyond the coaches, I want to share one crucial detail. I recently met Susaki, one of the world’s top wrestlers. She assured me that she will definitely return next year. This is precisely the motivation we need. When we first envisioned this dream, we could not have predicted its current level of success.

"The stadium was completely packed, with not a single seat available, and people outside were clamoring for tickets. This is the kind of appreciation and support we aspired for, and we are immensely pleased," he stated.

Addressing the role of coaches and the discussions surrounding foreign coaching staff, Gupta praised the contributions of Indian coaches. “All these matters will be elaborated upon. I firmly believe that Indian coaches possess exceptional capabilities and have performed admirably.

"When we watch from the comfort of our homes, we may not fully grasp it, but observing them on the ground revealed that every coach was wholly engaged—cheering enthusiastically and fully committed to the process.”

Gupta also disclosed that the league is contemplating expansion beyond freestyle wrestling, with discussions already initiated with both national and international bodies. “The inclusion of Greco-Roman wrestling is currently under consideration. Representatives from United World Wrestling (UWW), including their Vice President, were present and suggested this, which we are actively deliberating.

"We will collaborate closely with the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI), ensuring that no style of wrestling will lack representation of India's flag. While it will take time, we are determined to achieve it.