Report by Arvind Tiwari

Janjgir-Champa : Renowned wrestler Prateek Tiwari, the only wrestler from Chhattisgarh to represent India in “Death Matches” held nationally and internationally, paid a courtesy visit to newly appointed Superintendent of Police Vijay Pandey (IPS) at the district headquarters.

SP Pandey congratulated Prateek for his recent victory while representing India in a death match and praised his courage and dedication. He inquired about Prateek’s experiences in such extreme wrestling formats, which involve dangerous objects like barbed wire, baseball bats, ladders, chairs, and even burning candles. Prateek explained that survival in the ring often takes precedence over victory, as these matches push physical and mental limits. He noted, “Sometimes limbs get fractured, yet the match continues. We fight for the pride of our nation, not thinking about life or death.”

Recounting his wrestling journey, Prateek shared that he has participated in over 200 matches, winning major bouts since 2016 in cities like Dehradun, Haldwani, Ludhiana, Indore, Bikaner, Bijnor, and Sirohi. He emphasized that death matches are more than fights—they are battles of life and survival with no rules.

Prateek, popularly known as “The Lion” in the wrestling world, belongs to Amora (Mahant) village in Nawagarh block of Janjgir-Champa district. The only son of Mrs. Manju and Mr. Ramgulam Tiwari, he developed a passion for wrestling at the age of 13, inspired by his father’s admiration for The Great Khali. Recognizing his son’s dedication, the family sent Prateek to Punjab for professional training under Khali. After years of intense preparation, Prateek emerged as a powerful figure in the ring, defeating both national and international opponents.

He has recently competed in a high-stakes India vs Pakistan match and received special advice and motivation from SP Pandey for the event. SP Pandey praised Prateek’s patriotism and determination, assuring him of full support from the police department.

During a media interaction at his residence, Prateek reaffirmed his lifelong goal: to raise the Indian tricolor in every ring he steps into. “If I survive the death match, I will wave the Tricolor. If I fall, I will return home wrapped in it,” he said with unwavering resolve.

Notably, Prateek recently defeated international fighters at a death match event in Raipur, bringing honor to both his district and the state of Chhattisgarh.