Rivalry

Wrestling Showcases Heavyweight Battle in Short Film, "Rivalry: Taha v. Geno" 

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (April 15) -- They are the largest men in the sport of wrestling and for the past several years they've been exchanging some of its most epic battles.

With back-and-forth action and incredible stamina leading to nail-biting outcomes, Rio Olympic champion Taha AKGUL (TUR) and three-time world champion Geno PETRIASHVILI (GEO) have become appointment viewing for wrestling fans around the world. The duo has competed more than a half dozen times, exchanging wins and losses in what are often high-scoring matches with exertion that often seems in defiance of what is possible.

The documentary highlights the action on the mat, but also the incredible respect and admiration the duo shares for each other. 'I'm extra prepared and motivated each time we wrestle," says Akgul in the film. "He's an incredible sportsman with a strong will," replies Petriashvili.

While the action on the mat can get heated, the duo has showcased the power of respect in a rivalry and that wrestling -- while intense and without forgiveness -- can be a platform for building character.

Fans can watch the documentary for free on YouTube, IGTV, Facebook, and the UWW website.

#development

UWW raises awareness around 'Safe Sport' with Belgrade booth

By United World Wrestling Press

BELGRADE, Serbia (October 4) --- United World Wrestling established a 'Safe Sport' booth in the warm-up area at the 2023 World Championships, to raise awareness on crucial subjects related to Anti-Doping and Safeguarding Athletes.

Athletes, coaches, and physicians had the opportunity to scan a QR code and complete a 20-question quiz available in four languages: English, French, Spanish, and Russian. Upon completing the quiz, participants received a small gift branded with empowering messages like 'Empower, Protect, Wrestle with Respect' or 'We Wrestle Clean.'

This initiative proved to be a tremendous success, with more than 300 athletes participating in the online quiz. This figure represents approximately one-fourth of the total number of athletes present at the event.

Arsen JULFALAKYAN, Chair of the UWW Athletes Commission, played a crucial role in emphasizing the significance of creating a safe environment for all individuals engaged in wrestling. He stressed the importance of Athletes Safeguarding and asserted that it should be a shared concern for everyone involved in our sport. Mr. Julfalakyan also emphasized that we bear the responsibility of educating and empowering athletes with the ultimate goal of establishing a secure and inclusive environment in which all participants in the world of wrestling are respected, valued, and protected.