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.

#UWWAwards

WATCH: UWW Top Five Upsets of 2023

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (December 21) -- In a year that was full of highs and lows, the wrestling world saw a few unexpected results. Five present and former world champions left the World Championships in Belgrade without the gold medal. Two Greco-Roman giants -- Artur ALEKSANYAN (ARM) and Riza KAYAALP (TUR) -- lost the final in 97kg and 130kg.

In Freestyle, Iszmail MUSZUKAJEV (HUN) stunned Rahman AMOUZAD (IRI), Akhmed TAZHUDINOV (BRN) upset Abdulrashid SADULAEV (AIN) and Stevan MICIC (SRB) defeated Zavur UGUEV (AIN).

Watch the five biggest upsets of 2023 here

FS 97kg: Akhmed TAZHUDINOV (BRN) df. Abdulrashid SADULAEV (AIN)

65kg: Iszmail MUSZUKAJEV (HUN) df. Rahman AMOUZAD (IRI)

GR 130kg: Amin MIRZAZADEH (IRI) df. Riza KAYAALP (TUR)

FS 57kg: Stevan MICIC (SRB) df. Zavur UGUEV (AIN)

GR 97kg: Gabriel ROSILLO (CUB) df. Artur ALEKSANYAN (ARM)