Ather Zahid, the first-ever Saudi-born Pakistani professional wrestler, is gearing up for one of the most highly anticipated matches of his career as he travels to Nepal to defend his International Championship title against Indian challenger Samrat Virendra on 7th June 2025, coinciding with the sacred occasion of Eid al-Adha.
At 29 years old, Ather Zahid has already made history as a towering figure in South Asian wrestling. Born in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, to Pakistani parents, Zahid is a trailblazer in the world of professional wrestling, a fusion of strength, discipline, and cultural pride. Over the past year, Ather Zahid has become the face of professional wrestling in Pakistan and a growing media sensation, with appearances on national television, features in major publications, and a rapidly expanding fan base across social media platforms.
His upcoming match in Kathmandu, where he will defend the prestigious International Championship, is being seen as more than just a sporting event; it’s a symbolic clash between two rising nations in the wrestling world.
“I’m not just stepping into the ring for a title—I’m stepping in with 250 million Pakistanis behind me,” said Ather in a statement before his departure. “To represent Pakistan on Eid, in a match that crosses borders and unites fans, this is bigger than wrestling.”
Ather Zahid won the International Championship in October 2024 after defeating India’s Singham Dubey in a dramatic encounter in Kathmandu. His signature move, the Desert Slam, left audiences in awe and earned him the respect of both fans and competitors across the region.
Competing on Eid al-Adha adds another emotional layer for Zahid, who describes the timing as “a divine reminder that sacrifice and perseverance always come before celebration.”
His team has confirmed that Ather will observe Eid morning prayers in Kathmandu before heading to the venue for final preparations.