#UWWLIVE

UWW LIVE: Netherlands' First European Finalist Jessica Blaszka

By United World Wrestling Press

Jessica BLASZKA (NED) is the most successful Dutch women's wrestler ever. 

In 2015, Blaszka earned a bronze medal at the World Championships competing at 48kg and became the first Dutch women's wrestler to qualify for the Olympics. 

She claimed her first medal (bronze) at the European Championships in 2019, and this past February broke through to reach the gold-medal match at the 2020 European Championships at 53kg, before falling to two-time world champion Vanesa KALADZINSKAYA (BLR). 

Blaszka joined Eric Olanowski to talk about her history-making silver medal performance in Rome, training in @japanwrestling, and her potential path to qualifying for the #Tokyo202ONE Olympics.
 

#UnitedWorldWrestling

Five-time Olympic champ Lopez named UWW Ambassador

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (June 13) -- United World Wrestling has named Mijain LOPEZ (CUB), five-time Olympic gold medalist, as UWW ambassador.

Lopez, first athlete to win five Olympic gold medals in the same event, will be representing United World Wrestling (UWW) globally as an ambassador of the sport. This includes engaging in international relations, attending official events and championships, delivering masterclasses, and more.

“I’m thrilled to take on this new role as a UWW Ambassador and share my passion for wrestling across the globe," Lopez said. "I’m committed to giving back and inspiring future generations.

"My son has taken up wrestling and is following in my footsteps, so it feels only natural to embrace this role and contribute on a broader level. I’m also actively involved in supporting the training of the Cuban national team as I transition into this new chapter."

Lopez will also serve as an advisor to the UWW President and Bureau, offering strategic input on the future of wrestling and supporting various development projects.

Recently, Lopez attended the International Olympic Committee Athlete Forum in Lausanne organized by the IOC and spent two days at the UWW Headquarters along with UWW Athletes Commission Chair Arsen JULFALAKYAN (ARG).