University of Wolverhampton Celebrates Kabaddi World Cup Success

The University of Wolverhampton proudly celebrated the success of the Kabaddi World Cup 2025, after hosting the men’s quarter finals, and the women’s semi-finals at its Walsall Campus, contributing to a historic moment as the first time the competition has been hosted outside of Asia. As a key sponsor, the University played a crucial role in bringing this prestigious global tournament to the West Midlands, further reinforcing the region’s reputation as an international hub for cultural enrichment. 

Alongside the University as a host destination, fixtures took place across multiple venues, with the grand finals held at WV Active Aldersley in Wolverhampton. England’s men’s and women’s teams put in valiant performances against defending champions India, securing silver medals in front of an electrified crowd. 

The tournament, which ran from 17 March – 23 March, featured nearly 50 matches across Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, and Walsall, drawing top-tier athletes from across Africa, Asia, Oceania, Pan America, and Europe. The competition not only showcased elite-level kabaddi but also introduced the sport to a new audience, reaching over 40 million viewers globally, with significant engagement from the Indian subcontinent. 

The University’s sponsorship was instrumental in delivering the event and fostering cultural exchange through sport. Professor Prashant Pillai MBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been part of such a landmark event for the sport and the region. The Kabaddi World Cup highlighted the excitement of the game while strengthening our mission to promote inclusion and community engagement. Hosting international tournaments like this helps showcase the West Midlands and our university as a world-class sporting destination.” 

James Dale, Head of Sport at the University, added: “This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the University and our community to experience history in the making. It has been inspiring to see our students actively involved in the event’s delivery – from sports management and logistics to therapy and support services. Their contributions reflect our commitment to providing real-world experiences that enhance student learning and career readiness.” 

The University of Wolverhampton extends its congratulations to all participating teams and organisers for an unforgettable Kabaddi World Cup. The event not only celebrated the sport’s rich heritage but also paved the way for its vibrant future on the global stage. 

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