'Global' wrestling

More than one lakh spectators are expected for the wrestling matches organised to mark the occasion.

Wrestling has been associated with people of Belgaum for over centuries. The distinct feature this time is that foreign wrestlers will lock horns with local champions.

Olympic gold medallist Ilder Luka Kurtanidze of Russia will taken on ‘Bharat Kesari’ Joginder Singh of Delhi. Ilder has also bagged the world cup in Greeko-Roman style of wrestling.

However, this will be his first fight on a mud court. Levan Seturij of Georgia will challenge ‘Uttar Pradesh Kesari’ Varun Kumar. The foreign wrestlers have been paid a total of Rs 12 lakh for their participation while Rs three lakh each has been paid to those from Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.