The excitement for Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) 2025 has officially begun as the much-awaited player auction concluded on Monday, November 3, 2025, at a private hotel in Greater Noida West. Franchise owners of all 12 participating teams came together to build their squads for Season 2, bidding fiercely for their favourite players.
And the biggest headline of the evening? Baghpat’s rising kabaddi sensation, Vinay Tewatia, has created history by becoming the most expensive player of UPKL 2025, with Aligarh Tigers securing him for a record bid of ₹5.90 lakh.
Vinay Tewatia: From Baghpat to Breaking Records
Vinay’s journey from the local kabaddi grounds of Baghpat to becoming the highest-valued player in the league is truly inspirational. Over the past few years, he has impressed kabaddi enthusiasts and selectors alike with his powerful raids and tactical brilliance.
Speaking after the auction, the Aligarh Tigers management expressed full confidence in their newest recruit. They believe Vinay will be their “game-changer” this season, capable of turning matches with his aggressive play and consistency.
UPKL 2025 Auction: A Night of High Bids and High Energy
The UPKL Season 2 auction turned out to be a thrilling night filled with competitive bidding and passionate discussions. The entire process was transparent and category-based, where players were divided into four groups depending on their experience and previous performances.
The excitement continued late into the night as team owners vied to grab the best talents. Besides Vinay, several other players attracted impressive bids:
- Nitin Panwar was picked by Ganga Kings (Mirzapur) for ₹4.45 lakh.
- Ashu Singh joined Noida Ninjas for ₹4.35 lakh.
- Shubham Kumar became the first pick for Kanpur Warriors at ₹3.20 lakh.
In total, 575 players will feature in this year’s UPKL, promising a spectacular sporting festival for kabaddi lovers across Uttar Pradesh.
Star-Studded Event with Kabaddi Legends and Officials
The UPKL 2025 auction wasn’t just about the bids—it was also a star-studded evening celebrating the spirit of kabaddi. Present at the event were UPKL Brand Ambassador Rahul Chaudhari, Avadh Ramdoot franchise owner Avadh Ojha, UP Kabaddi Association Secretary Rajesh Singh, UP Kabaddi Federation representative Vinay Kumar Singh, Technical Director Tej Narayan, Kunal Sharma, and Rahul Sharma, among others.
All of them appreciated the growing standard of the league and the enthusiasm of the young players. Organizers also hinted that a ticketing system may be introduced this season to manage the massive fan turnout witnessed last year.
UPKL Season 2 to Kick Off on December 25 at Noida Stadium
UPKL Founder Sambhav Jain confirmed that Season 2 will begin on December 25, 2025, at the Noida Stadium. The grand opening ceremony will be inaugurated by Avnish Awasthi, Advisor to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Awasthi shared that this year’s edition will be organized at a bigger and more professional level, with plans for international live streaming, giving UPKL a platform not just within India but across global kabaddi audiences.
12 Teams Set to Battle for the UPKL 2025 Title
The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League 2025 will feature 12 powerful franchises, each representing different regions of the state:
- Lucknow Lions
- Yamuna Yoddhas
- Noida Ninjas
- Gajab Ghaziabad
- Kashi Kings
- Avadh Ramdoot
- Brij Stars
- Sangam Challengers
- Ganga Kings (Mirzapur)
- Aligarh Tigers
- Kanpur Warriors
- Purvanchal Panthers
Each team is gearing up with strong line-ups and unique strategies to claim the championship this season.
UPKL 2025: A Celebration of Uttar Pradesh’s Sporting Spirit
With its second season ready to roll out, UPKL 2025 is emerging as not just a regional event, but a national-level kabaddi spectacle. From the energy-filled auction to the preparation for international broadcasting, every move reflects the growing stature of this league.
As the countdown to December 25 begins, kabaddi lovers from across Uttar Pradesh are waiting eagerly to witness high-octane matches, raw talent, and the unbeatable spirit of this traditional Indian sport.
When the raiders and defenders step onto the mat at Noida Stadium, one thing is certain—UPKL 2025 will redefine kabaddi in Uttar Pradesh and set new benchmarks for future leagues.
