Joshua the Bull: a Chatsworth hero inspiring dreams in wrestling

FROM the Chatsworth Youth Centre to Africa’s grandest wrestling arenas, a local wrestling hero from Chatsworth has overcome adversity to become a symbol of resilience and hope for young dreamers.

In the heart of Chatsworth, where dreams are often shaped by adversity and fuelled by determination, local wrestler Joshua Jesse Chetty - has carved a path unlike any other.

Joshua the Bull, 33, as his fans across the country know him, is celebrating 15 years in the wrestling arena, proving that passion and persistence can indeed make giants out of humble beginnings.

“I was a teenager helping set up wrestling rings just to be close to the sport. When I finally debuted at the Chatsworth Youth Centre in 2010, it was on the death anniversary of Eddie Guerrero - that made it sacred to me,” Chetty recalled.

From that emotional beginning, Joshua’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable.

In 2016, he made history as the first Indian wrestler to win the WWP Tag Team Championship, a title earned on home turf at Durban’s Sibaya Casino. But his journey has not been without its battles - both in and out of the ring.

“Injuries and setbacks made me want to quit many times. But I realised I wasn’t just fighting for myself. I was representing every kid from Chatsworth who was told their dream was too different." 

Inspired by wrestling legends like The Undertaker and shaped by his Telugu heritage, Chetty brings his full identity into the ring - often entering to traditional Indian music, honouring his roots while forging his own legacy.

Recent performances include a fierce win at WrestleMonster 7, Africa’s biggest wrestling event, and a main-stage appearance at the Sunfest Sporting Festival. But it was his double-header at the NSAW Nitro Brawl in Pietermaritzburg earlier this month that showed both his strength and heart.

After overpowering newcomer Kev Killer in the opening bout, Chetty endured a brutal casket match against the unhinged Psycho -  complete with crowbars, chains, and bloodshed. With the crowd firmly in his corner and a timely assist from a ringside ally, he sealed his battered opponent inside the casket for a dramatic win.

“I gave everything I had that night. The people of Pietermaritzburg lifted me up. I will never forget that,” he said.

But perhaps more than the belts and battle scars, Chetty hopes his story will awaken something deeper in young dreamers from Chatsworth.

“Don’t give up. God is on your side. Your story is not too small. It’s just the beginning.”

Joshua the Bull remains a symbol of resilience, identity, and homegrown greatness.

Do you know a local hero like Joshua Chetty? Email us at [email protected] and help us shine a light on the champions in our communities.

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