Lausanne [Switzerland]: Asian Games gold medallist Bajrang Punia on Saturday became the world’s top-ranked freestyle wrestler in the 65 kg category in the recently updated rankings released by the United World Wrestling (UWW), the international governing body for the sport of amateur wrestling. Punia, who secured 96 points, has topped the charts with a massive 30-point lead over Alejandro Enrique Valdes Tobier of Cuba, while Akhmed Chakaev of Russia is placed at the third position with 62 points. “I am happy about the ranking because it reflects India’s overall growth in wrestling. But the real celebration for me will be when I become the Olympic champion,” Bajrang said as he felt blessed for the support he has got from all quarters, including his fans and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). The Indian wrestling sensation also had an impressive year with one gold and one silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and UWW World Championship respectively. Meanwhile, eight other Indian wrestlers have made it to the top 20 list of their respective weight categories for the UWW rankings. In men’s freestyle, Sandeep Tomar is ranked at the 14th place in the 57 kg category, Sonba Tanaji Gongane at 12th in 61 kg category, Sharvan at 20th in 61 kg, Deepak Punia at 13th in 86 kg and Sumit at 13th in 125 kg. On the other hand, in women’s wrestling, Ritu Phogat is ranked at 10th place in 50 kg, Vinesh Phogat at 17th in 50 kg, Pooja Dhanda at… [Read full story]
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