US tops world wrestling in absence of other giants

The 2018 World Cup of freestyle wrestling opened on April 7 in Iowa, the US without Iran and Russia, each having numerous championships in the competitions.

“Iran, the six-time defending World Cup champions, withdrew in March. According to Bender, the Iranian federation is dealing with “significant issues” after its president Rasoul Khadem’s recent departure.”

United World Wrestling invited Mongolia and India to replace Iran and Russia at the annual meet.

'Our team was poised to do well [even if] Russia and Iran [were competing], so that's a little bit disappointing,' said director of USA Wrestling Rich Bender.

Referring to the 'great wrestling traditions' of Iran and Russia, US freestyle coach Bill Zadick said, “It’s disappointing that they weren’t able to make.'

“Despite our difference in politics on the government side, our federations share a brotherhood and have a really positive relationship that I think both sides value,” he added.

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