Chairman of the Imo State Wrestling Association, Chief Christian Iloanusi, has appealed for collaboration from the government, media, stakeholders, and communities to reposition wrestling as a developmental sport and economic asset.
Speaking with journalists in Owerri, Iloanusi noted that structured sports systems across the world create viable opportunities such as scholarships and international exposure for young athletes.

He, however, lamented that those wrestling opportunities are largely missing for youths in Imo State and Nigeria at large, a gap he said he was determined to close through strategic reforms and partnerships.

According to him, amateur wrestling is a developmental sport that helps shape young minds and improve their discipline, focus and overall mindset.

Iloanusi also lamented that wrestling is under-reported in sports coverage, adding that without media support, the public will not fully understand the value and potential of the sport.

He clarified that wrestling includes amateur (Olympic) wrestling, professional wrestling, and traditional wrestling, adding that he is more interested in Olympic and traditional wrestling, rather than entertainment wrestling.

Describing traditional wrestling as an untapped economic opportunity, he said it is a multi-million-naira business if properly marketed, as it attracts massive crowds and can generate significant revenue.
He stated that he is determined to make something meaningful out of the traditional wrestling game in Imo State, adding that he is affiliated with the International Traditional Wrestling Alliance to promote the sport internationally.

Iloanusi revealed plans to organise a Governor’s Traditional Wrestling Competition that will involve all the 27 Local Government Areas of Imo State.

The competition, he explained, will bring together professionals, amateurs, and traditional wrestlers across the state, serving as both a cultural and sporting event.

He expressed happiness that Governor Hope Uzodimma is a member of the wrestling family and appealed to him to support the initiative, describing it as a win-win situation for the government and the youths of Imo State.
He expressed optimism that the state has the potential to become a leading force in wrestling once again.

The chairman further disclosed plans to introduce wrestling programmes into secondary schools across local government areas, saying, “wrestling is a very good sport that our kids need to change their mindset in many different ways.”