Olympic medallist Bajrang Punia and international wrestler Sangeeta Phogat have formally associated with the Orka Wrestling League (OWL), an international professional wrestling league being developed under the Orka Sports platform. The league is expected to launch in November 2026.

As part of the association, Bajrang Punia has been appointed Chief Wrestling Officer (CWO), while Sangeeta Phogat will serve as Director – Women’s Wrestling & Athlete Welfare. Both athletes will play key leadership roles in shaping the league’s competitive structure, governance framework, and athlete-focused policies.

The Orka Wrestling League is being positioned as an athlete-first international professional platform, with a strong emphasis on transparent governance, wrestler welfare, and long-term career development. The league aims to create a professional ecosystem where athletes are actively involved not only in competition but also in decision-making processes.

Commenting on the development, Sandip Suhag, CEO of Orka Sports, said that the involvement of elite athletes in leadership roles reflects the league’s core philosophy. According to him, Orka Wrestling League is designed to set new global benchmarks by combining professional management with athlete-led governance.

Orka Wrestling League is a key component of the broader Orka Sports Festival, a multi-sport initiative focused on building and operating professional sports leagues and international sporting events across multiple markets.

Bajrang Punia is widely recognised for his achievements on the global wrestling stage as well as for his advocacy on athlete representation and governance. Sangeeta Phogat’s leadership role is expected to strengthen the league’s focus on women’s wrestling, athlete welfare systems, and grassroots talent development.

Sources familiar with the matter said that the agreement between the parties was signed in Michigan, United States, during the athletes’ visit, following detailed discussions on the league’s vision, governance model, and long-term roadmap.

While the Orka Wrestling League is currently in its early development phase, sports industry observers believe that the appointment of top-level athletes in senior leadership roles highlights a growing shift toward athlete-led governance models in global professional sports ventures.

Further announcements regarding the league’s competitive format, launch roadmap, and international participation are expected in the coming months.