Muscat: Anas al Riyami, a pioneering young Omani professional wrestler, is all thrilled as he makes his first appearance this Saturday in Dubai in a World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) bout.
The event is under Dubai Sports Council and Anas is among 13 wrestlers who are selected for the show under Wrestlefest DXB company on May 18.
Wrestlers from host nation United Arab Emirates, India, Pakistan, Sweden, Lebanon, Philippines, Qatar, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom are attending the show with Al Riyami being the lone Omani in the field.
“I started wrestling ever since I was a kid in the backyard after watching it on the screens with my dad. I felt that there is something more than its ‘acting’ where it’s a combination of sports and entertainment that draws a lot of money around the world,” the 21-year-old from Barka told Oman Daily Observer.
“I started looking out to where I can find the nearest wrestling academy in the Middle East and saw QPW Academy, which is Qatar Pro Wrestling Academy in Qatar and they invited me to attend the classes after they watched some of my backyard wrestling stuff I posted online. I took my classes and eventually became the first ever Omani professional wrestler,” Anas explained his evolution as a professional wrestler.
“Now I’m getting booked in Qatar and I will make my first appearance this Saturday in Dubai under the company Wrestlefest DXB.”
The youngster said that becoming a professional wrestler requires several attributes in the person.
“Becoming a professional wrestler requires a blend of physical, technical, and personal attributes. Although it’s predetermined, wrestlers need excellent strength, agility and stamina. This includes rigorous strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, and flexibility exercises.”
FORMAL TRAINING
He says formal training is very important.
“Formal training at a reputable wrestling school is crucial. This includes learning basic moves, holds, bumps, and in-ring psychology and including strikes, throws, and submission holds are essential. Understanding how to perform moves safely for both the performer and the opponent is critical.”
And, personal skills are also required to captivate the audience.
“Wrestlers must be able to engage the audience through their personality and mic skills. Developing a strong character and being able to deliver compelling promos is vital. Understanding how to tell a story through a match, pacing, and the importance of selling moves is key to a successful wrestling career,” Anas explained.
The Omani believes that building a network within the wrestling industry and maintaining a strong social media presence can help with career opportunities and fan engagement.
“My goal is to establish myself as a prominent Omani professional wrestler, showcasing the talent and potential of Omani youth on the global stage. I aspire to captivate audiences worldwide and demonstrate that with passion, hard work, and dedication, no dream is unattainable. Through my journey, I aim to send a powerful message that nothing is impossible, inspiring others to pursue their dreams relentlessly.”
Anas said he is dedicated to boost the entertainment sport in Oman.
“I am dedicated to fostering the growth of professional wrestling in Oman, creating a vibrant and supportive community for enthusiasts and aspiring wrestlers alike. By establishing training programmes, organising local events, and collaborating with regional and international wrestling organisations, I aim to provide opportunities for talent development and exposure. My vision is to build a robust infrastructure that nurtures passion and skill, allowing individuals to pursue their dreams within a well-supported and professionally guided environment. Through these efforts, I seek to not only elevate the sport within our region but also to inspire and empower a new generation of Omani wrestlers to achieve greatness on the global stage just like how I did,” he signed off.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
