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 Iran, women’s wrestling is banned unless athletes wear the hijab, restricting their ability to participate in international competitions sanctioned by United World Wrestling. This regulation has led to significant challenges for female wrestlers, who often face barriers to competing and showcasing their talents on a global stage.
Melika Balali is an Iranian-born Scottish wrestler and a gold medalist in the British Championship. In July 2022, after winning the British freestyle wrestling title, Balali protested Iran’s compulsory hijab law by holding a sign that read, “Stop forcing hijab, I have the right to be a wrestler.”[2]
Following this protest, she received death threats in June 2022, prompting Police Scotland to implement security measures for her.[3][4][5]
- ^ a b c Fisher, Max (2012-08-09). "The Ancient Roots of Iran's Wrestling and Weightlifting Olympic Dominance". The Atlantic. Retrieved 2019-05-10.
- ^ "I Learned Freedom in the UK': Iranian-Born Wrestler Melika Balali on Taking a Stand Against Forced Hijab".
- ^ "ملیکا بلالی: اگر از زنان کشورم دفاع نمیکردم، شاید به المپیک میرفتم". Iranwire.
- ^ "Champion wrestler has police protection after threats from Iran".
- ^ "Iranian wrestler who won gold competing for Scotland says she has received death threats".