The Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF) has tutored a total of 30 referees on the new rules of the game ahead of the 4th Governor Douye Diri National Wrestling Classics, which kicks off in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

The former president of the Federation, Daniel Igali, said on Wednesday in Abuja that the technical session was aimed at acquainting participants with and enhancing their understanding of the latest rules of the sport.

He said representatives of various states, military and paramilitary institutions, and wrestling clubs gathered to learn some of the latest updates about the sport.

According to him, the state is ready to host one of the best-ever organised wrestling championships.

Mr Igali, who is also the Commissioner for Sports Development in Bayelsa, expressed confidence in the technical ability of referees and officials playing a positive role.

“In a national tournament of this nature, you have the technical session a day before to acquaint coaches and even athletes on how you will officiate.

“It is necessary for the referees and officials to know the updated rules and how coaches and athletes are expected to behave.

“I’m quite impressed with the delivery of the referees, and not forgetting we have about 30 referees for this tournament, which is more than enough to execute a lasting legacy of this 2025 championship,” he said.

He said the technical session is a critical component of a competition of this magnitude.

“We are very ready. I think this is about the most we can be ready, and I’m looking forward to a very exciting wrestling magic in this one week,” Igali said.

The championship was originally scheduled for December 10 to 20, but the event was postponed following the demise of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State. 

The fourth edition of the National Wrestling Classics is expected to commence on March 25 and end on April 1.