By Alam Zeb Safi
FAISALABAD: Muhammad Gulzar, popularly known as Gullu Pehlwan, conquered Muhammad Adnan, also known as Tera Wala, in the final to annex the prestigious Rustam-e-Pakistan title.
The bout lasted 18 minutes and featured a tactical display of strength, endurance and technique from both competitors at Faisalabad. In the crunch moment, Gulzar, who is also Pakistan’s bright future in mat wrestling, executed a decisive move, securing victory and claiming the grand title.
This is the first time that Gulzar has claimed Pakistan’s biggest mud wrestling crown.
The event, regarded as the largest platform for traditional mud wrestling in Pakistan, featured competitors ranging from emerging athletes at the grassroots level to seasoned national contenders. Wrestlers qualified through a rigorous multi-tier system, progressing from district and divisional rounds to provincial competitions before securing their spots in the national stage.
The main event included a series of high-intensity bouts, beginning with pre-quarterfinals, followed by quarterfinals and semifinals, ultimately narrowing the field to the top two finalists.
In addition to the final, a total of 25 other bouts were held during the event, keeping spectators engaged throughout. A large crowd attended the competition, reflecting strong public interest in traditional wrestling and providing enthusiastic support to the athletes.
Following his victory, Gullu Pehlwan was officially declared Rustam-e-Pakistan for the 2026–27 season, marking a significant milestone in his wrestling career.
The Pakistan Wrestling Federation (PWF) congratulated the organizers, athletes and fans on the successful completion of the event, emphasizing that such competitions play a vital role in promoting traditional sports and nurturing emerging talent in the country.
Meanwhile a grand reception ceremony will be held on Saturday (today) at 1pm at Inam Wrestling Academy, located within the Gujranwala Sports Complex near Sheikhupura Mor, to honor newly crowned Rustam-e-Pakistan Muhammad Gulzar.
The ceremony will bring together leading wrestlers from across Gujranwala, who will pay tribute to the champion in a traditional and celebratory manner.
According to the organizers, the reception will feature a vibrant cultural procession with Gulzar set to be paraded through the city on a decorated buggy. The celebrations will include rhythmic drum performances and traditional bhangra dancing with wrestlers dressed in customary attire joining in to mark the historic achievement.
Gulzar’s rise has also drawn attention due to his lineage in the sport. He is a protégé of Inam Butt, himself a former Rustam-e-Pakistan and world champion, making it a rare and notable moment in the country’s wrestling history where both mentor and student have held the same prestigious title.
Event organizers described the ceremony as more than a celebration, calling it a reflection of Pakistan’s rich wrestling heritage and cultural traditions. They emphasized that such events play a crucial role in promoting the sport and recognizing national heroes.
