The Role of Kurash in the Global Sports Arena

Abstract

Kurash is one of the oldest forms of traditional wrestling originating from Central Asia, particularly Uzbekistan. Over centuries, this martial art has developed from a cultural practice associated with festivals and social ceremonies into a modern competitive sport recognized at the international level. Today Kurash is practiced in more than one hundred countries and supported by international sports organizations. The purpose of this study is to analyze the historical origins, cultural significance, and global development of Kurash in the international sports arena. The research also examines the role of international federations, global competitions, and sports diplomacy in promoting Kurash worldwide. The study applies historical and descriptive research methods to investigate the evolution of Kurash and its modern institutional structure. The findings indicate that Kurash has successfully transformed into a globally recognized sport while maintaining its traditional values such as fairness, respect, and honor. Furthermore, international competitions and sports organizations have contributed significantly to the globalization of Kurash and its inclusion in regional multi-sport events. The results demonstrate that Kurash functions not only as a competitive sport but also as a cultural bridge connecting different nations and promoting intercultural dialogue.