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.

LIVE BLOG: Pan-American Championships (DAY TWO)

By Eric Olanowski

CORALVILLE, United States (May 8) -- The second day of wrestling at Pan-Ams is in full swing. Today, we welcome women's wrestling into mix, while also closing out Greco-Roman with 72kg and 97kg, which are the final two weights. The six women's weights we'll wrestle on Day Two are 50kg, 55kg, 57kg, 62kg, 68kg and 72kg.

11:20: This is not a knock on Greco-Roman, but Jasmine ROBINSON (USA) just had the nicest throw of the compeittion. A five-point suplex that is surly going to go viral over on our social channels. If you know how Kennedy BLADES (USA) throws her Suplex, Robinson's was nearly identical. I'm working on getting it up right now.

11:08: Gabriel ROSILLO KINDELAN (CUB), a Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medalist, will look to join Luis ORTA (CUB) and Kevin DE ARMES (CUB) as podium toppers here in Iowa. His toughest competition will be former Pan-Am champ Kevin MEJIA (HON). They are on opposite sides of the bracket and would not meet until the gold-medal match.