January 20, 2025

Mohammadreza Shadloui: The Maverick Who Redefined Kabaddi

Shadloui: The Iranian Star Redefining Kabaddi in the PKL

Mohammadreza Shadloui: The Iranian Star

Mohammadreza Shadloui, the Iranian star, is a stark contrast. He is flamboyant, fearless, and far from conventional. Shadloui doesn’t just play kabaddi – he performs. At 24, he has already won two Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) titles and built a massive fanbase.

Rising Star in the PKL

Shadloui entered PKL in 2021 when Patna Pirates signed him for ₹30 lakh. His defensive prowess was unmatched, earning 89 tackle points in his debut season. He quickly became a nightmare for raiders, making Patna unstoppable. Though they lost the final to Dabang Delhi, Shadloui’s impact was undeniable.

The following season, he again showcased his skills with 84 tackle points. Despite his stellar performance, Patna finished 10th. Shadloui then moved to Puneri Paltan in 2023 for a record ₹2.31 crore. He fit right in, helping Pune reach the finals and clinching the title with a close win over Haryana Steelers.

Comparisons with Fazel Atrachali

Shadloui’s aggressive style often draws comparisons to Iranian legend Fazel Atrachali. Fazel was a pioneer, dominating PKL and international kabaddi. Shadloui, however, brought a new flair. In PKL Season 1, he topped the tackles tally with 99 points surpassing expectations.

The All-Rounder

Shadloui joined Haryana Steelers in Season 11, becoming a true all-rounder. Scoring 82 tackle points and 57 raid points, he redefined versatility. Only Manjeet Chhillar had achieved similar numbers before.

Off the Mat

Away from kabaddi, Shadloui runs a construction business in Urmia, Iran. He trains in neighboring regions due to limited facilities at home. He’s also an avid reader of romantic poetry, sharing soulful verses on social media.

Shadloui is not just a player but a phenomenon. His love for kabaddi drives him to keep improving. With two PKL titles and countless fans he is a symbol of change and excitement in the sport.

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