Iranian wrestling or Koshti (Persian: کشتی, romanized: koshti) is a martial art and combat sport that has been practiced since ancient times in Iran. A form today is koshti pahlavani practiced in the zurkhaneh.[1]
While regional variations differ from one province to another. Olympic freestyle wrestling is often referred to as the "first sport" of Iran. Women's wrestling is less popular in Iran and Iranian women wrestlers have international and domestic records and honors.[1] Iran has won 47 Olympic medals for wrestling.[1]
In 2024, reports of the migration of Iranian women wrestlers have been published. Focusing on women's hijab problems in Iran. Melika Balali, an Iranian wrestler, also mentioned women's wrestling problems in Iran.[2]