COVID-19

UWW-Africa Training Center Offers Update, Message of Solidarity

By United World Wrestling Press

EL JADIDA, Morocco (April 22) -- Athletes from the UWW-African training program were joined by coaches and administrators in offering an update from their facility in El Jadida. The video message was distributed on the United World Wrestling homepage and social media platforms.

"I wish for us to win this fight against caronavirus and get back to our normal life as soon as possible" said UWW-Africa president and bureau member Fouad MESKOUT. "Stay Healthy and Stay Safe!"

The training center is one of several that were created by United World Wrestling to help grow the sport in new areas of the world such as Central America, South America, and Africa.

Obituary

U.S. Greco-Roman star Alan Vera passes away

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (September 24) -- United States Greco-Roman wrestler and Pan-Am champion Alan VERA (USA) passed away Monday. Vera suffered a sudden cardiac arrest earlier this year and had been hospitalized since then in recovery from his serious health challenges.

Vera was born in Cuba and won a bronze medal at the 2015 Pan American Games and a gold medal at the 2016 Pan American Championships, while competing for Cuba. He immigrated to the United States and lived in Florida for a number of years. He continued to train and compete in Greco-Roman and various international events for a few years.

Vera qualified the U.S. for the Paris Olympics in 97kg at the 2024 Pan-American Olympic Qualification Tournament in Acapulco, Mexico.

Very saddened to hear about Alan Vera’s passing. In my limited time around him he was always willing to help on the mat, and offer a laugh at a terrible joke I made

— Kyle Dake (@kyledake444) September 24, 2024
 

Domestically, Vera claimed his first U.S. national title in 2020, and won four national titles during his career.

Vera was married to Elena PIROZKHOVA (USA), a two-time Olympian and former world champion.

United World Wrestling mourns the death of Vera and stands with the Vera family.