900kg Buffalo Wins Do Son Water Buffalo Fighting Festival 2026, Claims VND100 Million Prize

A buffalo weighing approximately 900kg, identified as number 15 and owned by Mr. Le Ba Ngoc, has emerged victorious at the Do Son Water Buffalo Fighting Festival 2026 in Hai Phong, defeating 14 rivals in the final rounds. The champion secured a prize of VND100 million. On the morning of September 19, over 20,000 spectators flocked to the Do Son central stadium to witness the showdown between buffalo number 21 and number 15. Both had advanced through 16 preliminary bouts. Despite being smaller in weight and height, buffalo number 15 clinched the championship with its enduring stamina and sharp fighting techniques. This winning buffalo was purchased in Hanoi, standing 154cm tall, measuring 225cm long, with a chest girth of 244cm, horn width of 70cm, and weighing around 900kg. This marks the third time Mr. Le Ba Ngoc's buffalo has won the Do Son Water Buffalo Fighting Festival, previously achieving victory in 1993 and 2005. The final match was a thrilling contest between buffalo number 21 and number 15. Photo: Le Tan The organizing committee awarded VND100 million to the owner of the champion buffalo, number 15. The runner-up, buffalo number 21, received VND70 million, with two third-place prizes of VND30 million each, along with several other consolation prizes. This year's festival featured numerous innovations aimed at enhancing the experience for residents and tourists. On the afternoon of September 18, an expanded Do Son residents' wrestling competition took place at the 15/5 Square, with approximately 30 athletes from 20 clubs both within and outside the city participating. Notably, the first-ever street carnival was launched in Do Son on the evening of the same day. The parade included eight float models depicting the 15 final "buffalo kings," combined with lion, unicorn, and dragon dance troupes, and around 400 participants. The procession started from Dam Vuong Park and concluded at 15/5 Square. The stadium stands were packed. Photo: Le Tan The Do Son Water Buffalo Fighting Festival originates from the worship of the deity Diem Tuoc Dai Vuong, the god of the land and waters of Do Son. It has evolved over centuries, passed down through generations, and is intrinsically linked to the development of the region and its people. After a period of suspension, the festival was revived in 1990 and has been held continuously since. In 2012, it was recognized by the Ministry of Culture as an intangible cultural heritage. Buffaloes that lose their matches are sacrificed and their meat is sold for VND4 million to VND5 million per kilogram. The champion buffalo will undergo a special ritual the following day. By Le Tan