Beach wrestling

Pakistan’s Muhammad Inam Has Big Dreams

By Marc Berman

SARIGERME, Turkey (October 6th and 7th) --  When Muhammad INAM (PAK) steps in to the circle for the 90kg final later today the world championship title is up for grabs. He will not be alone when he makes his last walk to the circle this weekend “I come here for my nation, my people, my government. They motivate me and are with me.”

Inam made history last year by winning the first world championship title for Pakistan in beach wrestling. “Last year when I returned to Pakistan lots of people met me at the airport, taking pictures and throwing flowers to me. I did a lot of media and lots of interviews. It was a big deal for our nation.”

The transition to beach wrestling was a natural one for Inam. Starting as a young boy in mud wrestling was an advantage, “In Pakistan we do not have money for mats so, we train in the mud. Now I train 10 months in the mud and two months before the championship I change to the sand.”

Winning back to back world championship titles would be another historic milestone for Inam and Pakistan.  Even more motivating for him then the title is the opportunity to shine a positive light on his country for the world to see. “Last year people were afraid to talk with me because they did not know me or Pakistan but, this year the fans cheer for me and snap pictures with me. This is why I come here, for my people and the next generation.”

Be with Inam in the finals when he attempts to make history today by watching live  on United World Wrestling

UWW Statement on 2026 World Championships

By United World Wrestling Press

Joint Statement from United World Wrestling, the Bahrain Olympic Committee, and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (May 22) -- United World Wrestling (UWW), in close coordination with the Bahrain Olympic Committee and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation, announces the postponement of the 2026 World Championships originally scheduled to take place from October 24 to November 1 in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

This decision has been made after careful and responsible consideration of the current geopolitical situation in the region, particularly the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the pending conflict involving the Gulf region and its broader impact on regional stability and international travel. While Bahrain remains fully committed to hosting world-class sporting events, all parties believe that the safety, confidence, and overall experience of athletes, officials, delegations, partners, and fans must remain the highest priority.

As organizations dedicated to the growth and integrity of international sport, UWW, the Bahrain Olympic Committee, and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation believe it is important to make this decision with adequate time and transparency, rather than waiting until the final stages of preparation. Acting responsibly now allows sufficient opportunity to evaluate a potential new host nation for 2026, so the competition host can be identified and the event can be prepared in a professional and orderly manner.

Wrestling has always been more than competition. It is a bridge between nations, cultures, and people. At a time when the world faces uncertainty and division, we are reminded that sport remains a universal language of peace, respect, and unity. It is in this spirit that UWW, the Bahrain Olympic Committee, and the Bahrain Wrestling Federation issue this joint statement together.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the global wrestling family -- athletes, national federations, coaches, officials, partners, and supporters around the world -- for their understanding, solidarity, and continued support. United World Wrestling works with the national members in close cooperation, trust, and shared commitment to protecting the interests of the sport and its community worldwide.

Further updates regarding future dates and hosting considerations will be communicated in due course.