US Wrestler Jordan Burroughs Backs Phogat, Says “Give Her Silver”
On Wednesday morning, along with India’s ace wrestler, the whole world was stunned when the news of her disqualification from the Paris Olympics broke out. One of the most iconic freestyle wrestlers of the present time, Jordan Burroughs from the USA, weighed in on the matter, appealing for a silver medal for the Indian woman wrestler.
Jordan Burroughs, a six-time World Championship gold medallist and a gold medallist at the London Olympics voiced his support on social media platforms. He further criticized the current regulations of United World Wrestling (UWW) and called for a change that could prevent such situations.
Read also: Haryana To Welcome Vinesh Phogat As Olympic Medallist
“Maybe stories like this will wake up the IOC. Wrestling needs MORE than six weight classes! After three tough matches against world-class opponents, no athlete should have to spend the night preparing for a gold medal in this manner. Absolute desperation from the Indian team trying to get the last bit of weight off of Vinesh to qualify for today’s final,” Burroughs wrote.
Maybe stories like this will wake up the IOC.
Wrestling needs MORE than six weight classes!
After three tough matches against world class opponents, no athlete should have to spend the night preparing for a Gold medal in this manner.
Absolute desperation from the Indian team… pic.twitter.com/67l7Uleg1P
— Jordan Burroughs (@alliseeisgold) August 7, 2024
The Olympic medallist wrestler proosed that the United World Wrestling (UWW) amend its rules to allow for 1 kg second-day weight allowances, weigh-in to be pushed from 8:30 am to 10:30 am, forfeit future finals if other finalist fails to make weight, and guarantee both finalists’ medals following a semifinal victory even if weight is missed on Day 2. While asserting that the gold should be given only to the wrestler who makes weight on the second day. The Olympic star further requested a silver medal for Phogat.
Read also: Vinesh Phogat Announces Retirement After Paris Olympics Disqualification
United World Wrestling (UWW) head Nenad Lalovic said that even though he feels sad about the situation, there’s nothing that can be done because “rules are rules”.
When asked if Vinesh would be granted a medal due to the fact that she reached the final, Lalovic replied that it was impossible, reports Indian Express.
