In a development for the global grappling community, United World Wrestling has announced a strategic partnership with AIGA and the appointment of Tolegen Kumarov to lead world grappling within the UWW structure.
The decision signals a new chapter for the discipline, one centered on systematic expansion, international competition development, and the pursuit of Olympic recognition. Kumarov’s appointment reflects confidence in his track record of building competitive frameworks and strengthening the worldwide grappling community.
“Tolegen is someone who has proven himself,” said Nenad Lalovic, President of United World Wrestling and Member of the International Olympic Committee.
“We see here excellent participation, we see educational programs, we see many examples and we see low risks, this is very important for me and this is truly a successful initiative and of course we will collaborate closely with Tolegen in the future.”
The partnership arrives as AIGA has established itself as a notable force in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition organization, drawing elite-level stars through substantial prize offerings. The organization has made its events accessible by featuring live broadcasts at no cost on YouTube, gradually building viewership while continuing to refine its promotional approach. As traditional platforms face tighter financial constraints, AIGA’s model represents a fresh approach to sustaining high-level grappling competition.
Under Kumarov’s leadership, the immediate priorities include reinforcing the global competition calendar, expanding international events, and advancing grappling’s case for Olympic inclusion.
The initiative positions every practitioner as a potential Olympic medal contender, transforming what has long been an aspiration into a tangible objective.
“We hope for Tolegen to improve participation and bring more brothers and more athletes into the fold,” Lalovic added.
The collaboration between UWW and AIGA marks a deliberate shift toward unity and long-term planning within a discipline that has historically operated across fragmented organizational lines. With a new competition calendar on the horizon, the groundwork is being laid for grappling to make its case on the world’s largest sporting stage.
