Nigerian wrestlers win 4 gold medals at collegiate championships in USA

Four Nigerian wrestlers who participated in the 2026 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Women’s Wrestling National Championships, USA, have secured four gold medals, a feat that adds to Nigeria’s continued growing influence in the sport.  The collegiate tournament featured over 210 wrestlers within 10 weight classes who jostled for honour. Christinah Ogunsanya in the […]

Four Nigerian wrestlers who participated in the 2026 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Women’s Wrestling National Championships, USA, have secured four gold medals, a feat that adds to Nigeria’s continued growing influence in the sport. 

The collegiate tournament featured over 210 wrestlers within 10 weight classes who jostled for honour.

Christinah Ogunsanya in the 117-pound division started the medal sweep, delivering a strong performance throughout the tournament, showcasing her technical ability and experience to secure the title.

Jumoke Adekoye, 131 lbs followed the trajectory with a display of excellent tactical control and resilience, earning the championship title in her weight class.

Also, Esther Kolawole 138 lbs produced an eye-catching display that highlighted her strength. 

Kolawole’s international experience helped her to dominate the tournament, leading the event in technical falls during the competition. 

In a final wrap, Mercy Adekuoroye 160 lbs showed a tactical approach to a critical match situation with skillful displays.

Mercy, the younger sister to wrestling icon Odunayo Adekuoroye, exhibited tactical control and resilience, which secured the championship title for  her. 

Reacting to the performance, Nigerian Women’s National Team Wrestling coach, Akuh Purity, noted that the success of the four wrestlers highlights the growing impact of international athletes in collegiate wrestling in the United States. 

She added that the female wrestlers’ victories have not only earned them NAIA All-American recognition but also brought pride to their universities and to the Nigerian Government, the people and the Nigeria Wrestling Federation.