World Super Kabaddi League - All You Need To Know About International Competition To Be Held In Dubai

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The World Super Kabaddi League (WSKL) is set to transform the sport of Kabaddi into a global phenomenon. Organised by SJ Uplift Kabaddi Pvt Ltd, the league aims to elevate Kabaddi's status on the international stage. The inaugural season is planned for February-March 2026 in Dubai, with participation from nearly 30 countries and confirmation from 20 national federations.

WSKL will feature a franchise-based model with eight teams, each showcasing both international and Indian talent. This approach highlights the league's commitment to creating a truly global Kabaddi ecosystem. The league's foundation is built on the success of the Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL), which focused on nurturing talent within India.

SJ Uplift Kabaddi Pvt Ltd holds exclusive rights to both WSKL and UPKL. The company aims to globalise Kabaddi and eventually secure its inclusion in the Olympic Games. Backed by the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) and holding commercial rights through the South Asian Kabaddi Federation, WSKL is positioned as a credible and globally supported league.

Sambhav Jain, Director and Founder of SJ Uplift Kabaddi Pvt Ltd, expressed his vision for WSKL: "Kabaddi has always deserved a larger stage not just for India but for the global sporting community. With WSKL, our goal is to reimagine the sport for a global audience, unlock international talent, and take decisive steps towards Olympic recognition."

The league has committed a total player purse of ₹948 crore across its eight franchises. This substantial investment underscores strong interest in this new sports property. Prominent Kabaddi nations such as South Korea, Iran, Thailand, Pakistan, Malaysia, Japan, Canada, and the United States have already shown interest in participating.

Unlike traditional seasonal tournaments, WSKL is designed as an evolving global sports property. SJ Uplift Kabaddi Pvt Ltd plans to build WSKL into a year-round ecosystem that fosters fan engagement and long-term player development. This approach aims to create sustained opportunities for fans and players alike.

A New Era for Indian Sports

WSKL represents a significant step forward in making Kabaddi an internationally recognised sport. By hosting the inaugural season in Dubai, organisers aim to maximise international exposure and accessibility for fans worldwide. The strategic location choice reflects their ambition to reach a diverse audience.

SJ Uplift Kabaddi Pvt Ltd's efforts with WSKL set a new benchmark for Kabaddi by creating an international movement that aspires to bring the sport to a much larger audience. With this initiative, they are paving the way for future growth and modernisation of Kabaddi on a global scale.