Kahramanmaraş Dereköy Wrestling Festival marred by name controversy and protests

The Dulkadiroğlu Municipality in Kahramanmaraş organized the annual Dereköy Karakucak and Şalvar wrestling festivals, drawing athletes from 14 provinces—454 competitors in the 23rd and 24th editions. The events featured traditional bouts and notable victories, with Emin Demir winning the Karakucak title and Emre Batuhan Karslı claiming the Şalvar championship.

Controversy erupted when organizers removed former champion Şeref Eroğlu’s name from the festival title. Participants and supporters protested, accusing the municipality of disrespecting the wrestler’s legacy. The dispute escalated into a physical confrontation, prompting jandarma forces to intervene and restore order. Municipal officials, including Mayor Mehmet Akpınar, reiterated that the festival remains a celebration of the region’s heritage despite the incident.

The festivals also included cultural elements such as the brother‑vs‑brother match that attracted considerable local interest. Overall, the gatherings highlighted both the vitality of Turkey’s traditional sport and the tensions that can arise when historic figures are sidelined.