Rivalry

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

Wednesday, April 15, 2020 - 14:43 By United World Wrestling Press

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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 set to host first World Conference September 17-19

Tuesday, September 2, 2025 - 11:35 By United World Wrestling Press

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ZAGREB, Croatia (September 2) --- Mijain LOPEZ (CUB), alongside fellow Olympic legends Erica WIEBE (CAN), Arsen JULFALAKYAN (ARG), Sofia MATTSSON (SWE) and Marwa AMRI (TUN) headline the first edition of UWW’s World Conference, which will be held at the Westin Hotel in Zagreb, Croatia, September 17-19. 

The three-day conference will unite leaders from National Federations, members of UWW Commissions, International Olympic Committee, ITA, Rudis, Taishan and partners to exchange expertise, address key challenges, and set the course for the future development of wrestling worldwide.

Other presenters and panelists that you’ll hear from at the World Conference include: UWW President Nenad LALOVIC, Iranian Greco-Roman Head Coach Hassan RANGRAZ, USA Women’s Wrestling Head Coach Terry Steiner, UWW Coach Educators Nevan and Nenad ZUGAJ and many more.

Topics that they'll going to be discussing include: the future of wrestling and sport, athlete career transitions beyond competition, coaching and advancing women’s wrestling,  anti-doping, sports nutrition, and safe training methods, and much more.