India launches first kickboxing super league, ₹1 crore mega award for top fighters

India has taken a major step in professionalising combat sports with the launch of its first-ever Kickboxing Super League (KSL). The league was officially unveiled on February 7 during the WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations) India National Championship in New Delhi, in the presence of senior government officials, national sports administrators, coaches, athletes, and key stakeholders from across the sporting ecosystem.

The KSL aims to transform kickboxing in India by introducing a professionally structured competition system, athlete contracts, performance-based rewards, and a clear pathway from grassroots to elite levels. The inaugural season will feature eight franchise teams , known as Warrior Clans , each consisting of 34 fighters. The league has committed to a 60:40 men-to-women participation ratio, underlining its emphasis on inclusivity and the promotion of women athletes.

A standout feature of the league is the Mega Performance Award , which will reward the season’s best-performing fighter or fighters with up to ₹1 crore. Approximately 20% of participants will be international professionals, adding global competitiveness to the league. The first season is scheduled over a 16-day window and will host 238 bouts, ensuring intense action and ample opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills.

Fighter participation will be determined through open registrations, nationwide trials, selection camps, and a formal auction, after which participants will be contracted by the franchises for the season. Registrations for Season One are already open, with the league expected to release further details on trials, the auction schedule, and the official competition calendar in the coming months.

Kickboxing, recognised internationally by WAKO , an IOC-recognised federation, is among the fastest-growing combat sports in the world, played in over 150 countries. WAKO’s recognition ensures that the KSL follows global standards, giving Indian athletes a structured pathway from grassroots to elite international competition. With the launch of the KSL, India is now positioning itself to become a key player in the global kickboxing arena .