Alysh, a prestigious form of belt wrestling, was officially recognized as a medal sport at the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, held from September 22 to 23, 2017, in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The competition took place at the renowned Ashgabat Main Indoor Arena, serving as the venue for this highly anticipated event.

Alysh, deeply embedded in the cultural heritage of Central Asia, was introduced to the Games, marking a pivotal milestone in the sport’s international recognition. As a medal event, it attracted elite athletes from across Asia, who competed for podium positions, demonstrating the sport’s competitive significance and cultural value. This inclusion not only underscored Alysh’s importance within the Central Asian region but also affirmed its growing global prominence in the martial arts community.

The recognition of Alysh as a medal sport at such a prestigious event marks a significant step in its development, fostering wider recognition and encouraging further participation on the international stage.