Aabhas Rana, hailing from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, has become synonymous with determination and raw power in Indian armwrestling. Born and raised in a family that valued sports and discipline, Aabhas found his calling in strength-based sports at a young age. His journey began with local competitions, but his natural talent and relentless work ethic quickly set him apart from his peers. With the support of seasoned coaches and his family, he honed his skills and transitioned to the national stage.
Aabhas’s remarkable breakthrough came in August 2023 at the World Armwrestling Championship in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Competing in the sub-junior 70+ kg category, he captured gold medals in both the left- and right-hand events — a feat never before achieved by an Indian. In a stunning display, he defeated Georgia’s Bacho Digmelashvili in the left-hand junior final. His historic double victory not only made him India’s first junior world champion in armwrestling but also brought unprecedented recognition to the nation within the global armwrestling community.
Pro Panja League and Team Kiraak Hyderabad
With India’s armwrestling scene rapidly growing, Aabhas was inducted into Pro Panja League’s Kiraak Hyderabad for Season 2. The league, launched to bring professional armwrestling to a broader audience, is in its second season and will run from August 5, 2025 to August 21, 2025. Top armwrestlers from across India, including Aabhas, are expected to deliver electrifying performances as the sport gains rapid popularity. Aabhas’s inclusion in Kiraak Hyderabad is anticipated to draw crowds and inspire young athletes nationwide.
Aabhas Rana’s achievements signify more than personal glory—they represent a new era for Indian armwrestling. His success has encouraged more youth to consider the sport seriously, while platforms like the Pro Panja League continue to offer vital exposure. At just 16, Aabhas’s journey is only beginning, and he is widely regarded as a future legend in the making. We had a chance to chat with Aabhas ahead of the highly anticipated season 2 of Pro Panja League.
Q: Aabhas, you’ve made history as India’s first junior world champion. How do you reflect on that journey?
A: Thank you. Winning at the World Armwrestling Championship was a dream come true. I still remember the moment I realized I’d made history for India. It was all about discipline, training, and never giving up. My family and coaches always believed in me, and every hour in the gym paid off.
Q: What has been your most challenging moment so far?
A: The toughest was when I faced the Georgian champion in Kazakhstan. I’d heard so much about his strength and technique. But once I was on the table, all the anxiety went away. I just focused on what I had practiced repeatedly. That match taught me the importance of mental toughness as much as physical strength.
Q: How are you preparing for Season 2 of the Pro Panja League with Kiraak Hyderabad?
A: The Pro Panja League is a fantastic platform and the level of competition is intense. My training routine now includes more focused table practice, strength training, and analyzing my opponents’ techniques. With Team Kiraak Hyderabad, there’s a real team spirit. We’re motivated to give our best and make our city proud.
Q: You’ve inspired a lot of young athletes. Any advice for them?
A: Start early, stay dedicated, and respect your opponents. Armwrestling is much more than brawn—it’s about technique, discipline, and continuous learning. Stay coachable, set your goals high, and don’t be afraid to fail. Every defeat is a lesson, and every win is a new beginning.
Q: What are your ambitions for the future?
A: I want to bring more international medals for India and see armwrestling become as popular here as other mainstream sports. Personally, I hope to inspire the next generation of champions. The journey has just begun, and I’m excited for what’s to come.
