‘I’m not doing anything wrong’: How these hijabis are breaking barriers in Singapore’s pro wrestling scene

Her sister added: “I know I’m not doing anything wrong, so it doesn’t really matter what they have to say. 

“As long as I’m having fun and my parents are on board, that’s the most important thing for me.” 

Watching pro wrestling on the television with their father, and later reenacting the moves on their bed, were what sparked their early interest in the sport.

“Our father is also a fan of wrestling so he’s proud of us. He assures us that we’re not doing anything bad with our body, but it’s a form of physical activity. And there’s nothing to be ashamed of,” said Nadiah. 

Persuading their mother, who was more concerned with the physical dangers, took much longer.

“We had to come up with benefits to convince her that this was our passion and what we want to do,” said Nadiah. “But now she tells her colleagues that we’re in wrestling and she seems proud to show it off.”