The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) has strengthened its partnership with kabaddi legend Rahul Chaudhari, retaining him as Brand Ambassador for Season 2. The ‘Showman of Kabaddi’ will continue championing India’s fastest-growing state-level kabaddi league, which kicks off December 25, 2025, in Noida.
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‘Showman of Kabaddi’ Continues League Partnership
Known nationwide as the ‘Showman of Kabaddi,’ Rahul Chaudhari has been instrumental in popularizing the sport across India. His continued association with UPKL reinforces the league’s commitment to grassroots development and professional excellence in kabaddi.
Rahul Chaudhari’s Championship Legacy
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Playing Style | Transitioned from defender to India’s strongest raider |
| 2016 South Asian Games | Gold Medal with Indian National Team |
| Kabaddi World Cup 2016 | Gold Medal winner |
| Beach Asian Games 2014 | Captain of Indian team (Thailand) |
| National Championship 2015 | Captain of UP team |
What’s New in UPKL Season 2
Season 2 promises expanded reach with a groundbreaking broadcast partnership with Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited’s Zee Sports. The collaboration will deliver nationwide TV and OTT coverage, significantly boosting the league’s visibility.
The upcoming season features 12 city-based franchises competing in 71 matches over 19 days, creating India’s most comprehensive state-level kabaddi competition.
Sambhav Jain, Founder and Director of SJ Uplift Kabaddi, emphasized the partnership’s importance: “Rahul brought in brand firepower for Season 1, and with him on board for our upcoming season, we will further leverage his following to make UPKL a household name across India.”
Empowering Grassroots Talent
Rahul Chaudhari praised UPKL’s impact on emerging players, stating: “The league created a pathway for grassroots talent to rise and make their mark at the national level. It has become a powerful launchpad, empowering players and non-players to look at Kabaddi more closely from a career lens.”
UPKL’s athlete-centric approach and professional framework continue setting new benchmarks for regional leagues, transforming local passion into mainstream recognition in Indian sports.
With Zee Sports’ broadcast muscle and Rahul Chaudhari’s star power, Season 2 is positioned to elevate kabaddi’s profile while providing unprecedented opportunities for talented athletes from Uttar Pradesh and beyond.
FAQs
When does UPKL Season 2 begin?
UPKL Season 2 kicks off on December 25, 2025, in Noida with 71 matches over 19 days.
How many teams will compete in UPKL Season 2?
12 city-based franchise teams will compete in the tournament.
