Wrestler Bajrang Punia was India's flag bearer during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 8) as the 16-day event came to a close. The Tokyo 2020 Games were declared closed by IOC chief Thomas Bach, ending the pandemic-hit Games.&nbsp;The Olympic Flame was slowly extinguished in the cauldron.&nbsp;

The Tokyo 2020 ended with India registering the most successful Games in history by winning seven medals - one gold, two silver and four bronze. For India, the medal winners are Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Kumar, Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain and the Indian men's hockey team.&nbsp;

In the Olympic Stadium, which was nearly empty, Punia walked out,&nbsp;holding the Indian flag in his hand. The festivities began in front of VIPs after the Japanese flag was raised at the venue.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/india-among-countries-with-highest-cash-rewards-for-tokyo-olympic-medalists-check-out-the-complete-list-402017">India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list</a>

See some pictures here:

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Indian Flag shining 🇮🇳 at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClosingCeremony?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClosingCeremony</a> of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> 
 
Indian Contingent led by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BajrangPunia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BajrangPunia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> 
 
What a event, What a performance by Indian Athletes. You made entire India Proud!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MirabaiChanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MirabaiChanu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PVSindhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PVSindhu</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LovlinaBorgohain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LovlinaBorgohain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Hockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Hockey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeerajChopra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeerajChopra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviDahiya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviDahiya</a> <a href="https://t.co/M1500rUMBx">pic.twitter.com/M1500rUMBx</a>
— Gaurav Mishra🇮🇳 (@IAmGMishra) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAmGMishra/status/1424349757443514379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> | The closing ceremony begins<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BajrangPunia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BajrangPunia</a> walks out with Indian flag, athletes in cheerful mood 
 
India registered their best-ever campaign at the Tokyo Games, with 7 medals in total. <a href="https://t.co/4rUrUCBT0h">pic.twitter.com/4rUrUCBT0h</a>
— Aravind Raj (@Aravind83702342) <a href="https://twitter.com/Aravind83702342/status/1424344468111560709?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Tokyo Olympics 2020 comes to an end with the Closing Ceremony at the Olympic stadium. For India, <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> led the proceedings as the flag bearer for the closing ceremony. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/eVgwKV3gFo">pic.twitter.com/eVgwKV3gFo</a>
— Prasar Bharati News Services पी.बी.एन.एस. (@PBNS_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/PBNS_India/status/1424344924221231109?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The theme of the closing ceremony was "Worlds We Share", to give a moment to everyone to think about what the future holds and expresses the idea that we inhabit.&nbsp;

During the closing ceremony, the Olympic Flag was lowered and the Olympic Anthem was sung. Thomas Bach declared the Games closed, he said, "I declare the Games of the 32nd Olympiad closed. In accordance with tradition, I call upon the youth of the world to assemble in Paris, France, in three years' time to celebrate the Games of the 33rd Olympiad."

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The Olympic spirit is in all of us. 
 
A display of beautiful, luminous colours swirl together, representing the many flags of the world. 
 
They form the Olympic Rings, a timeless symbol of unity. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StrongerTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StrongerTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClosingCeremony?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClosingCeremony</a> <a href="https://t.co/38dv0e0w98">pic.twitter.com/38dv0e0w98</a>
— Olympics (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1424337113433186308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic</a>

Bach called them "unprecedented Olympic Games" as he addressed the 68,000-seat Olympic Stadium, which was bereft of fans as Japan battles to contain a record coronavirus outbreak.

"In these difficult times we are all living through, you give the world the most precious of gifts: hope," the International Olympic Committee president told athletes at the&nbsp;ceremony.

"And now I have to mark the end of this most challenging Olympic journey to Tokyo: I declare the Games of the 32nd Olympiad closed," he added.

(with inputs from agencies)

Wrestler Bajrang Punia was India's flag bearer during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 8) as the 16-day event came to a close. The Tokyo 2020 Games were declared closed by IOC chief Thomas Bach, ending the pandemic-hit Games.

Wrestler Bajrang Punia was India's flag bearer during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Sunday (August 8) as the 16-day event came to a close. The Tokyo 2020 Games were declared closed by IOC chief Thomas Bach, ending the pandemic-hit Games. The Olympic Flame was slowly extinguished in the cauldron. The Tokyo 2020 ended with India registering the most successful Games in history by winning seven medals - one gold, two silver and four bronze. For India, the medal winners are Neeraj Chopra, Ravi Kumar, Mirabai Chanu, Bajrang Punia, PV Sindhu, Lovlina Borgohain and the Indian men's hockey team. In the Olympic Stadium, which was nearly empty, Punia walked out, holding the Indian flag in his hand. The festivities began in front of VIPs after the Japanese flag was raised at the venue. IN PICS | India among countries with highest cash-rewards for Olympic medalists - Check out the complete list See some pictures here: Indian Flag shining 🇮🇳 at #ClosingCeremony of #Olympics #Tokyo2020 Indian Contingent led by #BajrangPunia @BajrangPunia What a event, What a performance by Indian Athletes. You made entire India Proud!#MirabaiChanu #PVSindhu #LovlinaBorgohain #Hockey #NeerajChopra #RaviDahiya pic.twitter.com/M1500rUMBx — Gaurav Mishra🇮🇳 (@IAmGMishra) August 8, 2021 × #Tokyo2020 | The closing ceremony begins#BajrangPunia walks out with Indian flag, athletes in cheerful mood India registered their best-ever campaign at the Tokyo Games, with 7 medals in total. pic.twitter.com/4rUrUCBT0h — Aravind Raj (@Aravind83702342) August 8, 2021 × Tokyo Olympics 2020 comes to an end with the Closing Ceremony at the Olympic stadium. For India, @BajrangPunia led the proceedings as the flag bearer for the closing ceremony. #Tokyo2020 #Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/eVgwKV3gFo — Prasar Bharati News Services पी.बी.एन.एस. (@PBNS_India) August 8, 2021 × The theme of the closing ceremony was "Worlds We Share", to give a moment to everyone to think about what the future holds and expresses the idea that we inhabit. During the closing ceremony, the Olympic Flag was lowered and the Olympic Anthem was sung. Thomas Bach declared the Games closed, he said, "I declare the Games of the 32nd Olympiad closed. In accordance with tradition, I call upon the youth of the world to assemble in Paris, France, in three years' time to celebrate the Games of the 33rd Olympiad." The Olympic spirit is in all of us. A display of beautiful, luminous colours swirl together, representing the many flags of the world. They form the Olympic Rings, a timeless symbol of unity. #StrongerTogether #Tokyo2020 #ClosingCeremony pic.twitter.com/38dv0e0w98 — Olympics (@Olympics) August 8, 2021 × IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympic Bach called them "unprecedented Olympic Games" as he addressed the 68,000-seat Olympic Stadium, which was bereft of fans as Japan battles to contain a record coronavirus outbreak. "In these difficult times we are all living through, you give the world the most precious of gifts: hope," the International Olympic Committee president told athletes at the ceremony. "And now I have to mark the end of this most challenging Olympic journey to Tokyo: I declare the Games of the 32nd Olympiad closed," he added. (with inputs from agencies)

As Tokyo Olympics declared closed, see glimpses of India's flag bearer Bajrang Punia during closing ceremony

Bajrang Punia will fight for a bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics as he went down 12-5 fighting Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the men's 65kg wrestling semi-final at the Makuhari Messe Hall on Friday. India's medal hopeful will now try to manage a podium finish on Saturday (August 7). He will face either Senegal's Adama Diatta or Kazakhstan's Daulet Niyazbekov in the medal match.&nbsp;Aliyev, the Rio 2016 bronze-medallist in 57kg and a three-time world champion in 61kg, was a tough competitor. In the match, Punia looked to go on the offence early and gaining the first point passivity penalty on Aliyev. However, the Azerbaijan wrestler scored back-to-back takedowns and took a 4-1 lead into the second period. Aliyev then took advantage of the opening and scored another four points after getting hold of the Indian wrestler's ankles and twirling him around a couple of times. Bajrang Punia tried to bounce back in the bout, but Aliyev kept picking up points of his own to win the bout 12-5.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367" hreflang="en">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics</a>

Here's everything you need to know about the Bajrang Punia's 65kg men's freestyle wrestling bronze medal match:

<h2>When is Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match?</h2>

The bronze medal match is scheduled for August 7.&nbsp;

<h2>What's the timing of Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match?</h2>

The bronze medal match will kickoff at 3:55 pm IST as per the Olympics official website.&nbsp;

<h2>What's the venue of the Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match?</h2>

The bronze medal match will take place at Makuhari Messe Hall.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-womens-hockey-team-captures-nations-imagination-heres-a-look-at-their-fairytale-run-at-tokyo-2020-403368">Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020</a>

<h2>Where to watch Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match live?</h2>

The match will be aired on Sony TEN 3, Sony TEN 3 HD, Sony TEN 4 and Sony TEN 4 HD will broadcast Tokyo 2020 in regional languages.&nbsp;

<h2>Where to watch Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match online/live stream?</h2>

Live streaming of the Tokyo Olympics wrestling event will be available on Sony LIV.

Bajrang Punia will fight for a bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics as he went down 12-5 fighting Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the men's 65kg wrestling semi-final at the Makuhari Messe Hall on Friday.

Bajrang Punia will fight for a bronze medal at Tokyo Olympics as he went down 12-5 fighting Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in the men's 65kg wrestling semi-final at the Makuhari Messe Hall on Friday. India's medal hopeful will now try to manage a podium finish on Saturday (August 7). He will face either Senegal's Adama Diatta or Kazakhstan's Daulet Niyazbekov in the medal match. Aliyev, the Rio 2016 bronze-medallist in 57kg and a three-time world champion in 61kg, was a tough competitor. In the match, Punia looked to go on the offence early and gaining the first point passivity penalty on Aliyev. However, the Azerbaijan wrestler scored back-to-back takedowns and took a 4-1 lead into the second period. Aliyev then took advantage of the opening and scored another four points after getting hold of the Indian wrestler's ankles and twirling him around a couple of times. Bajrang Punia tried to bounce back in the bout, but Aliyev kept picking up points of his own to win the bout 12-5. IN PICS | From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics Here's everything you need to know about the Bajrang Punia's 65kg men's freestyle wrestling bronze medal match: When is Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match? The bronze medal match is scheduled for August 7. What's the timing of Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match? The bronze medal match will kickoff at 3:55 pm IST as per the Olympics official website. What's the venue of the Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match? The bronze medal match will take place at Makuhari Messe Hall. IN PICS | Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020 Where to watch Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match live? The match will be aired on Sony TEN 3, Sony TEN 3 HD, Sony TEN 4 and Sony TEN 4 HD will broadcast Tokyo 2020 in regional languages. Where to watch Bajrang Punia's bronze medal match online/live stream? Live streaming of the Tokyo Olympics wrestling event will be available on Sony LIV.

Tokyo Olympics: When and where to watch Bajrang Punia's fight for bronze in 65kg freestyle wrestling

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia won a bronze medal in the freestyle 65kgs category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. This medal equals India's previous best tally of six medals in the Olympics. Bajrang beat&nbsp;Daulet Niyazbekov of Kazakhastan 8-0 to win the bronze medal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/photos/from-ravi-kumar-to-pv-sindhu-indian-athletes-with-mind-boggling-cash-rewards-after-winning-medals-in-tokyo-olympics-india-403367" hreflang="en">From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics</a>

He also becomes the sixth Indian wrestler to win an Olympics medal.&nbsp;

Previously, he defeated Iran's Morteza Ghiasi by fall in the quarter-finals to book a berth in the semis. Earlier in the day, he beat Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout to move to the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

However, he lost the semi-finals bout against Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev 5-12 in Men's 65kg Freestyle. After the match, Bajrang Punia's father, Balwan Singh said, "Winning and losing is part of life. He will definitely win the Bronze medal."

In the match against&nbsp;Daulet Niyazbekov, Punia dominated from the very beginning. India earned two medals from wrestling in Olympics this year. Ravi Kumar Dahiya won a silver medal, and now Bajrang Punia has won bronze.&nbsp;

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia won a bronze medal in the freestyle 65kgs category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. This medal equals India's previous best tally of six medals in the Olympics.

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia won a bronze medal in the freestyle 65kgs category at the Tokyo Olympics 2020. This medal equals India's previous best tally of six medals in the Olympics. Bajrang beat Daulet Niyazbekov of Kazakhastan 8-0 to win the bronze medal. ALSO READ: From Ravi Kumar to PV Sindhu: Indian Athletes get mind-boggling cash rewards after winning medals in Tokyo Olympics He also becomes the sixth Indian wrestler to win an Olympics medal. Previously, he defeated Iran's Morteza Ghiasi by fall in the quarter-finals to book a berth in the semis. Earlier in the day, he beat Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout to move to the quarterfinals. However, he lost the semi-finals bout against Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev 5-12 in Men's 65kg Freestyle. After the match, Bajrang Punia's father, Balwan Singh said, "Winning and losing is part of life. He will definitely win the Bronze medal." In the match against Daulet Niyazbekov, Punia dominated from the very beginning. India earned two medals from wrestling in Olympics this year. Ravi Kumar Dahiya won a silver medal, and now Bajrang Punia has won bronze.

Tokyo Olympics: Bajrang Punia wins bronze in wrestling, India medal tally equals previous best

Indian wrestling star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-wrestling-bajrang-punia-moves-to-quarter-final-403304">Bajrang Punia </a>moved to men's free-style 65kg semi-final after beating Iran's Morteza Cheka Ghiasi at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics on Friday.&nbsp;

Previously, he had moved to the quarterfinals after just about managing to go past Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout. A timely take-down move just before the end of the first period put the Indian ahead 3-1 but Akmataliev ran Bajrang close in the second period, getting two push-out points to level the scores. Since Bajrang had the high scoring move, a two-pointer takedown, he was declared the winner on criteria.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-womens-hockey-team-goes-down-fighting-against-great-britain-in-bronze-medal-match-403301">Tokyo Olympics: Women's hockey team goes down fighting against Great Britain in bronze medal match</a>

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BAJRANG ADVANCES TO SEMIFINAL!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> advances to the semifinal of Men’s freestyle 65 Kg by winning by fall against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IRI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IRI</a> Morteza Cheka Ghiasi 
 
Watch this space for updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/Kzi5xPknbl">pic.twitter.com/Kzi5xPknbl</a>
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On the other hand, debutant Indian wrestler Seema Bisla could not find a way to get out of the defensive trap of Tunisia's Sarra Hamdi and lost her 50kg opening round 1-3.&nbsp;

Indian wrestling star Bajrang Punia moved to men's free-style 65kg semi-final after beating Iran's Morteza Cheka Ghiasi at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics on Friday. Previously, he had moved to the quarterfinals after just about managing to go past Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout.

Indian wrestling star Bajrang Punia moved to men's free-style 65kg semi-final after beating Iran's Morteza Cheka Ghiasi at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics on Friday. Previously, he had moved to the quarterfinals after just about managing to go past Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout. A timely take-down move just before the end of the first period put the Indian ahead 3-1 but Akmataliev ran Bajrang close in the second period, getting two push-out points to level the scores. Since Bajrang had the high scoring move, a two-pointer takedown, he was declared the winner on criteria. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Women's hockey team goes down fighting against Great Britain in bronze medal match BAJRANG ADVANCES TO SEMIFINAL!!#IND @BajrangPunia advances to the semifinal of Men’s freestyle 65 Kg by winning by fall against #IRI Morteza Cheka Ghiasi Watch this space for updates on #Olympics #Tokyo2020#Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/Kzi5xPknbl — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 6, 2021 × On the other hand, debutant Indian wrestler Seema Bisla could not find a way to get out of the defensive trap of Tunisia's Sarra Hamdi and lost her 50kg opening round 1-3.

Tokyo Olympics wrestling: Bajrang Punia advances to semis after defeating Iran's Morteza Cheka Ghiasi

Bajrang Punia, the last medal hope for India in wrestling at the ongoing Olympics, moved to the men's free-style 65kg quarterfinals after just about managing to go past Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout, here on Friday.

A timely take-down move just before the end of the first period put the Indian ahead 3-1 but Akmataliev ran Bajrang close in the second period, getting two push-out points to level the scores. Since Bajrang had the high scoring move, a two-pointer take down, he was declared winner on criteria.

It was not the most clean and fluent victories that he is known for, but was just enough for Bajrang, who came into the Games after suffering a minor knee injury during a local Russian tournament.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-womens-hockey-team-goes-down-fighting-against-great-britain-in-bronze-medal-match-403301">Tokyo Olympics: Women's hockey team goes down fighting against Great Britain in bronze medal match</a>

The Indian will next face Iran's Morteza Cheka Ghiasi. Earlier, Debutant Indian wrestler Seema Bisla could not find a way to get out of the defensive trap of Tunisia's Sarra Hamdi and lost her 50kg opening round 1-3.

The 27-year-old could not make her moves as Hamdi applied the body lock to great effect, never allowing Seema to initiate a strong attack.

There hardly any moves in the bout with Hamdi getting two of her three points on push out and one on Seema's passivity.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> makes a winning start to his <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> campaign as he beats Ernazar Akmatalaiev of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KGZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KGZ</a> Winning by Points 
 
With this Bajrang advances to quarterfinal 
 
Watch him Live in QF at 9:17 AM (IST)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/2uc2RAHQ1n">pic.twitter.com/2uc2RAHQ1n</a>
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Seema got on board when she too pushed her rival out after being put on activity clock for a second time. She now needs the Tunisian to make the final for return to competition through the repechage route.

The Rohtak grappler had not even won a national event till 2017 but went on to secure her berth for the Games by winning the World Olympic Qualifier, held in Sofia in May.

Bajrang Punia, the last medal hope for India in wrestling at the ongoing Olympics, moved to the men's free-style 65kg quarterfinals after just about managing to go past Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout, here on Friday.

Bajrang Punia, the last medal hope for India in wrestling at the ongoing Olympics, moved to the men's free-style 65kg quarterfinals after just about managing to go past Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout, here on Friday. A timely take-down move just before the end of the first period put the Indian ahead 3-1 but Akmataliev ran Bajrang close in the second period, getting two push-out points to level the scores. Since Bajrang had the high scoring move, a two-pointer take down, he was declared winner on criteria. It was not the most clean and fluent victories that he is known for, but was just enough for Bajrang, who came into the Games after suffering a minor knee injury during a local Russian tournament. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Women's hockey team goes down fighting against Great Britain in bronze medal match The Indian will next face Iran's Morteza Cheka Ghiasi. Earlier, Debutant Indian wrestler Seema Bisla could not find a way to get out of the defensive trap of Tunisia's Sarra Hamdi and lost her 50kg opening round 1-3. The 27-year-old could not make her moves as Hamdi applied the body lock to great effect, never allowing Seema to initiate a strong attack. There hardly any moves in the bout with Hamdi getting two of her three points on push out and one on Seema's passivity. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics hockey: Belgium claim first gold after shootout win over Australia #IND @BajrangPunia makes a winning start to his #Olympics campaign as he beats Ernazar Akmatalaiev of #KGZ Winning by Points With this Bajrang advances to quarterfinal Watch him Live in QF at 9:17 AM (IST)#Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/2uc2RAHQ1n — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 6, 2021 × Seema got on board when she too pushed her rival out after being put on activity clock for a second time. She now needs the Tunisian to make the final for return to competition through the repechage route. The Rohtak grappler had not even won a national event till 2017 but went on to secure her berth for the Games by winning the World Olympic Qualifier, held in Sofia in May.

Tokyo Olympics wrestling: Bajrang Punia moves to quarter-final

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia lost to Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev 5-12 in Men's 65kg Freestyle semi-final at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Friday (August 6) at the Makuhari Messe Hall. Punia will now play for the bronze medal.

Previously, he defeated Iran's Morteza Ghiasi by fall in the quarter-finals to book a berth in the semis. Earlier in the day, he beat Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout to move to the quarterfinals.&nbsp;

After the match, Bajrang Punia's father, Balwan Singh said, "Winning and losing is part of life. He will definitely win the Bronze medal."

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IND</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> goes down 5-12 to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AZE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AZE</a> Haji Aliyev in Men's Freestyle 65kg semifinal. He will now play for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bronze?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bronze</a> at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> tomorrow, 7 Aug. 
 
Stay tuned for more updates on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaAtOlympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaAtOlympics</a>. <a href="https://t.co/FiLYSKSqvn">pic.twitter.com/FiLYSKSqvn</a>
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IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-womens-hockey-team-captures-nations-imagination-heres-a-look-at-their-fairytale-run-at-tokyo-2020-403368">Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020</a>

In the bout against Haji Aliyev, who is the Rio 2016 bronze-medallist in 57kg and a three-time world champion in 61kg, Punia looked to go on the offence early and gaining the first point passivity penalty on Aliyev.

However, the Azerbaijan wrestler scored back-to-back takedowns and took a 4-1 lead into the second period. Aliyev then took advantage of the opening and scored another four points after getting hold of the Indian wrestler's ankles and twirling him around a couple of times. Bajrang Punia tried to claw his way back in the bout, but Aliyev kept picking up points of his own to win the bout 12-5.&nbsp;

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia lost to Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev 5-12 in Men's 65kg Freestyle semi-final at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Friday (August 6) at the Makuhari Messe Hall.

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia lost to Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev 5-12 in Men's 65kg Freestyle semi-final at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on Friday (August 6) at the Makuhari Messe Hall. Punia will now play for the bronze medal. Previously, he defeated Iran's Morteza Ghiasi by fall in the quarter-finals to book a berth in the semis. Earlier in the day, he beat Kyrgyzstan's Ernazar Akmataliev in his opening bout to move to the quarterfinals. After the match, Bajrang Punia's father, Balwan Singh said, "Winning and losing is part of life. He will definitely win the Bronze medal." #IND @BajrangPunia goes down 5-12 to #AZE Haji Aliyev in Men's Freestyle 65kg semifinal. He will now play for the #Bronze at #Tokyo2020 tomorrow, 7 Aug. Stay tuned for more updates on #IndiaAtOlympics. pic.twitter.com/FiLYSKSqvn — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 6, 2021 × IN PICS | Indian women's hockey team captures nation's imagination, here's a look at their fairytale run at Tokyo 2020 In the bout against Haji Aliyev, who is the Rio 2016 bronze-medallist in 57kg and a three-time world champion in 61kg, Punia looked to go on the offence early and gaining the first point passivity penalty on Aliyev. However, the Azerbaijan wrestler scored back-to-back takedowns and took a 4-1 lead into the second period. Aliyev then took advantage of the opening and scored another four points after getting hold of the Indian wrestler's ankles and twirling him around a couple of times. Bajrang Punia tried to claw his way back in the bout, but Aliyev kept picking up points of his own to win the bout 12-5.

Tokyo Olympics: Wrestler Bajrang Punia loses to Azerbaijan's Haji Aliyev in semis, will play for bronze next

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out.

The 25-year-old Bajrang is one of India's medal contenders at the Games, which are under doubt due to the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 15000 lives and infected more than 3,00,000 people worldwide. 
Bajrang, the 2019 World Championship bronze medallist, works with the Railways as an officer on special duty (OSD).

"I have decided to donate my six months salary," Bajrang tweeted and immediately earned praise from Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, who said it was a laudable effort.

Talking to PTI, Bajrang said, "Before Olympics we have to fight Coronavirus. If situation does not improve, and continues for 2-3 months, it will be perfectly alright to postpone the Olympics."

"If it is held with Coronavirus continuing to wreak havoc, a lot of nations will not send their athletes. Already Canada and Australia have said they won't send their athletes. What's the point then.

"So it is not just India's problem, it's a global issue, which needs to be tackled first," he added.

Bajrang is training at an apartment in Sonepat while his coach Shako Bentinidis has left for Georgia. India's foreign coach for women wrestlers Andrew Cook has also left for the US a few days ago.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) says it will decide the country's participation in about four weeks' time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is under tremendous pressure to postpone the Games.

Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, another Indian medal contender at the Games, says she has been training hard and it does not matter what she feels about the postponement of the Games.

"I am at my home and training has been good so far. Whatever I say, does not matter," she said.

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out.

Star wrestler Bajrang Punia on Monday decided to donate his six months salary towards fight against COVID-19 pandemic and called for postponement of Tokyo Olympics, saying the mega event will lose sheen if it goes ahead in the absence of nations who have already pulled out. The 25-year-old Bajrang is one of India's medal contenders at the Games, which are under doubt due to the coronavirus, which has claimed more than 15000 lives and infected more than 3,00,000 people worldwide. Bajrang, the 2019 World Championship bronze medallist, works with the Railways as an officer on special duty (OSD). "I have decided to donate my six months salary," Bajrang tweeted and immediately earned praise from Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, who said it was a laudable effort. Talking to PTI, Bajrang said, "Before Olympics we have to fight Coronavirus. If situation does not improve, and continues for 2-3 months, it will be perfectly alright to postpone the Olympics." "If it is held with Coronavirus continuing to wreak havoc, a lot of nations will not send their athletes. Already Canada and Australia have said they won't send their athletes. What's the point then. "So it is not just India's problem, it's a global issue, which needs to be tackled first," he added. Bajrang is training at an apartment in Sonepat while his coach Shako Bentinidis has left for Georgia. India's foreign coach for women wrestlers Andrew Cook has also left for the US a few days ago. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) says it will decide the country's participation in about four weeks' time. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is under tremendous pressure to postpone the Games. Meanwhile, Vinesh Phogat, another Indian medal contender at the Games, says she has been training hard and it does not matter what she feels about the postponement of the Games. "I am at my home and training has been good so far. Whatever I say, does not matter," she said.

Bajrang Punia to donate six months salary, calls for postponement of Tokyo Games

Bajrang Punia on Friday bagged the bronze medal in the World Wrestling Championships.

Punia defeated Mongolia's Tulga Tumur Ochir 8-7 to clinch the medal in the 65 kg weight category.

The wrestler was trailing 2-6 in the match, but he was able to come back from behind to register a win in the match.

"Bajrang wins bronze! Our #TOPSAthlete wrestler @BajrangPunia wins the bronze medal in the men's 65 kg following an 8-7 win over Tulga Tumur Ochir after trailing 2-6. This is his 3rd world C'ship medal. He had already clinched an #OlympicQuota. @RijijuOffice," SAI Media tweeted.

The 25-year-old had secured a spot for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on Thursday after an impressive 8-1 win over North Korea's Jong Son in the tournament.

On Wednesday, Vinesh Phogat became the first Indian wrestler to qualify for the upcoming global games.

Phogat had booked her place in the 53kg category. She had bagged back-to-back gold medals in the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games.

In the 2018 Asian Games, she had clinched a gold medal in the 50kg category.

Bajrang Punia on Friday bagged the bronze medal in the World Wrestling Championships. Punia defeated Mongolia's Tulga Tumur Ochir 8-7 to clinch the medal in the 65 kg weight category.

Bajrang Punia on Friday bagged the bronze medal in the World Wrestling Championships. Punia defeated Mongolia's Tulga Tumur Ochir 8-7 to clinch the medal in the 65 kg weight category. The wrestler was trailing 2-6 in the match, but he was able to come back from behind to register a win in the match. "Bajrang wins bronze! Our #TOPSAthlete wrestler @BajrangPunia wins the bronze medal in the men's 65 kg following an 8-7 win over Tulga Tumur Ochir after trailing 2-6. This is his 3rd world C'ship medal. He had already clinched an #OlympicQuota. @RijijuOffice," SAI Media tweeted. The 25-year-old had secured a spot for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on Thursday after an impressive 8-1 win over North Korea's Jong Son in the tournament. On Wednesday, Vinesh Phogat became the first Indian wrestler to qualify for the upcoming global games. Phogat had booked her place in the 53kg category. She had bagged back-to-back gold medals in the 2014 and 2018 Commonwealth Games. In the 2018 Asian Games, she had clinched a gold medal in the 50kg category.

Bajrang Punia bags bronze medal in World Wrestling Championships

India's para-athlete Deepa Malik will receive Rajiv Khel Ratna award, which is the country's highest sporting honour.&nbsp;

Malik, who became the first Indian female athlete to win a Paralympics medal, was finalised by the selection committee along with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bajrang-punia-to-get-rajiv-gandhi-khel-ratna-243522">wrestler Bajrang Punia</a>.&nbsp;

Rio Paralympics silver medallist Deepa Malik is also a recipient of the Padma Shri and Arjuna award.&nbsp;

Malik stared her sports career at the age of 36&nbsp;and won a silver medal in shot put at the 2016 Paralympics Games.&nbsp;

She has won 58 national and 23 international medals and has entered the Limca Book of World Records four times.&nbsp;

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Deepa Malik to get Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award 
 
Read <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> Story l <a href="https://t.co/DjAuvTA7KQ">https://t.co/DjAuvTA7KQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/8nBAZfsIMC">pic.twitter.com/8nBAZfsIMC</a>
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Many congratulations to wrestler <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BajrangPunia</a> and Para-Athlete <a href="https://twitter.com/deepamalik?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeepaMalik</a> who have been recommended for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajivGandhiKhelRatna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajivGandhiKhelRatna</a> in 2019. 👏🏻🎉<a href="https://twitter.com/RijijuOffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RijijuOffice</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KirenRijiju?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KirenRijiju</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wrestling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wrestling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/FederationWrest?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FederationWrest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/afiindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@afiindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ParalympicIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ParalympicIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaSports</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KheloIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KheloIndia</a> 🇮🇳
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Cricketers Ravindra Jadeja and Poonam Yadav among 19 sportspersons have been nominated for the Arjuna award.&nbsp;

India's para-athlete Deepa Malik will receive Rajiv Khel Ratna award, which is the country's highest sporting honour. Malik, who became the first Indian female athlete to win a Paralympics medal, was finalised by the selection committee along with wrestler Bajrang Punia.

India's para-athlete Deepa Malik will receive Rajiv Khel Ratna award, which is the country's highest sporting honour. Malik, who became the first Indian female athlete to win a Paralympics medal, was finalised by the selection committee along with wrestler Bajrang Punia. Rio Paralympics silver medallist Deepa Malik is also a recipient of the Padma Shri and Arjuna award. Malik stared her sports career at the age of 36 and won a silver medal in shot put at the 2016 Paralympics Games. She has won 58 national and 23 international medals and has entered the Limca Book of World Records four times. Deepa Malik to get Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award Read @ANI Story l https://t.co/DjAuvTA7KQ pic.twitter.com/8nBAZfsIMC — ANI Digital (@ani_digital) August 17, 2019 × Many congratulations to wrestler @BajrangPunia and Para-Athlete @DeepaMalik who have been recommended for the #RajivGandhiKhelRatna in 2019. 👏🏻🎉@RijijuOffice @KirenRijiju #Wrestling @FederationWrest @afiindia @ParalympicIndia @IndiaSports #KheloIndia 🇮🇳 — SAIMedia (@Media_SAI) August 17, 2019 × Cricketers Ravindra Jadeja and Poonam Yadav among 19 sportspersons have been nominated for the Arjuna award.

Deepa Malik to get Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award

Cricketers Ravindra Jadeja and Poonam Yadav among 19 sportspersons have been nominated for the Arjuna award.

The names of the sportspersons were finalised by the Selection Committee on Saturday.

Jadeja and Yadav's names were recommended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in April for the prestigious award this year.

The list also includes the name of Tajinderpal Singh Toor (athletics), Mohammed Anas Yahiya (athletics), S Bhaskaran (bodybuilding), Sonia Lather (boxing), Chinglensana Singh Kangujam (hockey), Ajay Thakur (Kabaddi), Gaurav Singh Gill (motorsports), Pramod Bhagat (para-sports, badminton), Anjum Moudgil (shooting), Harmeet Rajul Desai (table tennis), Pooja Dhanda (wrestling), Fouaad Mirza (Equestrian), Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (football), Swapna Barman (athletics), Sundar Singh Gurjar (para-sports, athletics), Bhamidipati Sai Praneeth (badminton), Simran Singh Shergill (polo).

Arjuna Award is an honour bestowed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in order to recognise the achievement of athletes.

Bajrang Punia and Deepa Malik have been picked for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna by the committee.

Cricketers Ravindra Jadeja and Poonam Yadav among 19 sportspersons have been nominated for the Arjuna award. The names of the sportspersons were finalised by the Selection Committee on Saturday.

Cricketers Ravindra Jadeja and Poonam Yadav among 19 sportspersons have been nominated for the Arjuna award. The names of the sportspersons were finalised by the Selection Committee on Saturday. Jadeja and Yadav's names were recommended by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in April for the prestigious award this year. The list also includes the name of Tajinderpal Singh Toor (athletics), Mohammed Anas Yahiya (athletics), S Bhaskaran (bodybuilding), Sonia Lather (boxing), Chinglensana Singh Kangujam (hockey), Ajay Thakur (Kabaddi), Gaurav Singh Gill (motorsports), Pramod Bhagat (para-sports, badminton), Anjum Moudgil (shooting), Harmeet Rajul Desai (table tennis), Pooja Dhanda (wrestling), Fouaad Mirza (Equestrian), Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (football), Swapna Barman (athletics), Sundar Singh Gurjar (para-sports, athletics), Bhamidipati Sai Praneeth (badminton), Simran Singh Shergill (polo). Arjuna Award is an honour bestowed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in order to recognise the achievement of athletes. Bajrang Punia and Deepa Malik have been picked for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna by the committee.

Poonam Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja among 19 sportspersons nominated for Arjuna award

Medal-winning wrestler Bajrang Punia is all set to get the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, the country's highest sporting honour.

Punia's name for the award was finalised by the selection committee on Friday, a source told ANI.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had recommended his name for the khel ratna in April.

In 2018, Punia had the won the gold medals at the Asian Games (Jakarta) and Commonwealth Games (Gold Coast) in the 65 kg category.

He also achieved the number 1 ranking in wrestling, in a first for India, at the world level.

He won the Arjuna award in 2015.

A meeting of the committee will be held tomorrow to finalise the names for the Arjuna and Dronacharya awards.

The WFI had forwarded the names of wrestlers Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for the Arjuna awards.

It had recommended the names of Virender Kumar, Sujeet Maan, Narendra Kumar and Vikram Kumar for the Dronacharya awards.

Medal-winning wrestler Bajrang Punia is all set to get the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, the country's highest sporting honour. Punia's name for the award was finalised by the selection committee on Friday, a source told ANI.

Medal-winning wrestler Bajrang Punia is all set to get the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, the country's highest sporting honour. Punia's name for the award was finalised by the selection committee on Friday, a source told ANI. The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) had recommended his name for the khel ratna in April. In 2018, Punia had the won the gold medals at the Asian Games (Jakarta) and Commonwealth Games (Gold Coast) in the 65 kg category. He also achieved the number 1 ranking in wrestling, in a first for India, at the world level. He won the Arjuna award in 2015. A meeting of the committee will be held tomorrow to finalise the names for the Arjuna and Dronacharya awards. The WFI had forwarded the names of wrestlers Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for the Arjuna awards. It had recommended the names of Virender Kumar, Sujeet Maan, Narendra Kumar and Vikram Kumar for the Dronacharya awards.

Bajrang Punia to get Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna

Wrestler Sushil Kumar on Wednesday expressed his solidarity with Bajrang Punia and said that the government should felicitate athletes to set a good example.

"Firstly, I would like to extend <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-federation-of-india-recommends-bajrang-punia-and-vinesh-phogat-for-rajeev-khel-ratna-award-214365&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiagaXYoIfjAhWKuY8KHbKHD_4QFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2HohaSaXBokCaVaXijam-Q">Punia's </a>statement. He's like my small brother, we should all stand in solidarity with the national level athlete," Kumar told ANI.

"He should be given respect by the government. Haryana policy set the benchmark earlier on how to treat the athletes. I would like to say that the government should hold a ceremony to felicitate the athletes," he added.

Kumar said players do a lot of hard work and they should be felicitated to set a good example among the budding athletes.

"Athletes do a lot of hard work and if you felicitate the players, it would prove to be a good incentive for the budding athletes in the country. Everyone is standing together with Bajrang Punia," Kumar said.

Earlier in the day, Punia had said that he will return the prize money if athletes continue to be disrespected by the state government of Haryana.

"I will return my prize money if the players did not get respect. The government has cancelled the award ceremony and they are directly transferring the curtailed amount to athlete's account. I think the sports policy made by the government is totally bad," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/bajrang-punia-first-indian-wrestler-to-fight-at-new-yorks-iconic-madison-square-213876&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiagaXYoIfjAhWKuY8KHbKHD_4QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lYWSMCR6lufrxIfZAfn9_">Punia </a>told reporters.

The wrestler, who hails from Haryana, on Tuesday had tweeted against the sports policy of the state government for curtailing the winning amount of the sportsperson.

Facing criticism from the gold medalist, Haryana sports minister Anil Vij on Wednesday claimed that his government has always given the biggest prize money as compared to the other states.

"We have not insulted any sportsmen in the state. In fact, we give them the highest winning amount in India. We give them the best job opportunities," Vij told reporters.

However, Punia further slammed the government, saying that it did not fulfil the promise of giving jobs to players.

"I want to ask the Sports Minister of Haryana that whom's sports policy are you talking about. How many jobs have you offered to players?," Punia asked.

Wrestler Sushil Kumar on Wednesday expressed his solidarity with Bajrang Punia and said that the government should felicitate athletes to set a good example. "Firstly, I would like to extend Punia's statement.

Wrestler Sushil Kumar on Wednesday expressed his solidarity with Bajrang Punia and said that the government should felicitate athletes to set a good example. "Firstly, I would like to extend Punia's statement. He's like my small brother, we should all stand in solidarity with the national level athlete," Kumar told ANI. "He should be given respect by the government. Haryana policy set the benchmark earlier on how to treat the athletes. I would like to say that the government should hold a ceremony to felicitate the athletes," he added. Kumar said players do a lot of hard work and they should be felicitated to set a good example among the budding athletes. "Athletes do a lot of hard work and if you felicitate the players, it would prove to be a good incentive for the budding athletes in the country. Everyone is standing together with Bajrang Punia," Kumar said. Earlier in the day, Punia had said that he will return the prize money if athletes continue to be disrespected by the state government of Haryana. "I will return my prize money if the players did not get respect. The government has cancelled the award ceremony and they are directly transferring the curtailed amount to athlete's account. I think the sports policy made by the government is totally bad," Punia told reporters. The wrestler, who hails from Haryana, on Tuesday had tweeted against the sports policy of the state government for curtailing the winning amount of the sportsperson. Facing criticism from the gold medalist, Haryana sports minister Anil Vij on Wednesday claimed that his government has always given the biggest prize money as compared to the other states. "We have not insulted any sportsmen in the state. In fact, we give them the highest winning amount in India. We give them the best job opportunities," Vij told reporters. However, Punia further slammed the government, saying that it did not fulfil the promise of giving jobs to players. "I want to ask the Sports Minister of Haryana that whom's sports policy are you talking about. How many jobs have you offered to players?," Punia asked.

Prize money row: Sushil Kumar backs Bajrang Punia

World number one Bajrang Punia has become the first Indian to win gold at the Ali Aliev wrestling tournament after defeating Viktor Rassadin of Russia in the 65 kg freestyle in Kapiisk.

Bajrang, who won the Asian Championships in China last week, came through stiff resistance from a host of local favourites over two days to prove his credentials as the world`s best wrestler in his category.

With the win on Thursday, the Indian has cemented his place on the top in the world rankings and is currently the highest ranked freestyle Asian wrestler in the world.

"I think the fact that I am competing in three different continents in three weeks is itself an incredible feat and I am thankful for all the support I have received through this period. I did have the belief that I could do well in these competitions and am pleased with my performances so far," Bajrang said.

"I am now looking forward to participating at Madison Square Garden and will continue to do my best to live up to the nation`s expectations in the tournaments to come," he said.

Bajrang, who is part of the JSW Sports Excellence Program, will now get on the road once again as he heads to New York for the Beat The Streets 'Grapple At the Garden'&nbsp;on May 6 at the historic Madison Square Garden arena.

The Indian wrestler will take on former cadet world champion and two-time NCAA champion Yianni Diakomihalis.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

World number one Bajrang Punia has become the first Indian to win gold at the Ali Aliev wrestling tournament after defeating Viktor Rassadin of Russia in the 65 kg freestyle in Kapiisk.

World number one Bajrang Punia has become the first Indian to win gold at the Ali Aliev wrestling tournament after defeating Viktor Rassadin of Russia in the 65 kg freestyle in Kapiisk. Bajrang, who won the Asian Championships in China last week, came through stiff resistance from a host of local favourites over two days to prove his credentials as the world`s best wrestler in his category. With the win on Thursday, the Indian has cemented his place on the top in the world rankings and is currently the highest ranked freestyle Asian wrestler in the world. "I think the fact that I am competing in three different continents in three weeks is itself an incredible feat and I am thankful for all the support I have received through this period. I did have the belief that I could do well in these competitions and am pleased with my performances so far," Bajrang said. "I am now looking forward to participating at Madison Square Garden and will continue to do my best to live up to the nation`s expectations in the tournaments to come," he said. Bajrang, who is part of the JSW Sports Excellence Program, will now get on the road once again as he heads to New York for the Beat The Streets 'Grapple At the Garden' on May 6 at the historic Madison Square Garden arena. The Indian wrestler will take on former cadet world champion and two-time NCAA champion Yianni Diakomihalis.

Bajrang Punia bags gold at Ali Aliev wrestling tournament

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has recommended wrestlers <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=vinesh+phogat">Vinesh Phogat</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=bajrang+punia">Bajrang Punia</a> for India's the highest sporting honour, Rajeev Khel Ratna Award.&nbsp;

Bajrang and Vinesh's names were sent by WFI owing to their remarkable performances in the last couple of years.&nbsp;

"They (Bajrang and Vinesh) have been recommended for Khel Ratna by the WFI after both of them submitted their applications," a WFI official confirmed.&nbsp;

Besides, WFI has also recommended Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for Arjuna award.&nbsp;

India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports gives the Arjuna Awards to recognize outstanding achievement in sports.&nbsp;

WFI also recommended Virender Kumar, Sujeet Maan, Narendra Kumar &amp; Vikram Kumar for Dronacharya award, which is a sports coaching honour, given for the outstanding coaches in sports and games.&nbsp;

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Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) recommends Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for Arjuna award; Recommends, Virender Kumar, Sujeet Maan, Narendra Kumar &amp; Vikram Kumar for Dronacharya award. <a href="https://t.co/Z8M9Qn1ZJZ">https://t.co/Z8M9Qn1ZJZ</a>
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Punia has eight gold medals from his previous nine international tournaments including last year's Commonwealth and Asian Games.&nbsp;

Asian champion Bajrang Punia is to become the first Indian wrestler to fight at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden.&nbsp;

Punia, who won the 65kg men's freestyle gold at the recent Asian championships, will be among top wrestlers selected by the American governing body for the May 6 tournament.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old will take on two-time US national champion Yianni Diakomahlis in the "Grapple at the Garden" Beat the Streets event which since 2010 has become a major showcase for international wrestling.&nbsp;

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has recommended wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia for India's the highest sporting honour, Rajeev Khel Ratna Award.

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has recommended wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia for India's the highest sporting honour, Rajeev Khel Ratna Award. Bajrang and Vinesh's names were sent by WFI owing to their remarkable performances in the last couple of years. "They (Bajrang and Vinesh) have been recommended for Khel Ratna by the WFI after both of them submitted their applications," a WFI official confirmed. Besides, WFI has also recommended Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for Arjuna award. India's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports gives the Arjuna Awards to recognize outstanding achievement in sports. WFI also recommended Virender Kumar, Sujeet Maan, Narendra Kumar & Vikram Kumar for Dronacharya award, which is a sports coaching honour, given for the outstanding coaches in sports and games. Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) recommends Rahul Aware, Harpreet Singh, Divya Kakran and Pooja Dhanda for Arjuna award; Recommends, Virender Kumar, Sujeet Maan, Narendra Kumar & Vikram Kumar for Dronacharya award. https://t.co/Z8M9Qn1ZJZ — ANI (@ANI) April 29, 2019 × Punia has eight gold medals from his previous nine international tournaments including last year's Commonwealth and Asian Games. Asian champion Bajrang Punia is to become the first Indian wrestler to fight at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden. Punia, who won the 65kg men's freestyle gold at the recent Asian championships, will be among top wrestlers selected by the American governing body for the May 6 tournament. The 25-year-old will take on two-time US national champion Yianni Diakomahlis in the "Grapple at the Garden" Beat the Streets event which since 2010 has become a major showcase for international wrestling.

Wrestling Federation of India recommends Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat for Rajeev Khel Ratna Award

Asian champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Bajrang+Punia">Bajrang Punia</a> is to become the first Indian wrestler to fight at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden.&nbsp;

Punia, who won the 65kg men's freestyle gold at the recent Asian championships, will be among top wrestlers selected by the American governing body for the May 6 tournament.&nbsp;

The 25-year-old will take on two-time US national champion Yianni Diakomahlis in the "Grapple at the Garden" Beat the Streets event which since 2010 has become a major showcase for international wrestling.&nbsp;

"If you see it from a player's perspective then it is quite an experience fighting at Madison Square Garden. It's great exposure. But there is happiness and there is fear," Punia told AFP.&nbsp;

"Happiness because I am the first Indian to be invited there. Fear because of my country's expectations whether I will be able to meet up with it or not," added Punia, who hails from Jhajjar district of the north Indian state of Haryana.&nbsp;

Punia has eight gold medals from his previous nine international tournaments including last year's Commonwealth and Asian Games.&nbsp;

Punia's mentor Yogeshwar Dutt who won the 60kg bronze at the 2012 London Olympics praised his achievement.

"He has been winning all this time and he will triumph at Madison Square Garden," Dutt told AFP.&nbsp;

"He wins finals everywhere he goes. I just tell him to keep working hard."&nbsp;

American wrestler Kyle Snyder, who won the 97kg title at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, and Jordan Burroughs -- 2012 London Olympics gold winner -- are the other top attractions at the event.&nbsp;

Asian champion Bajrang Punia is to become the first Indian wrestler to fight at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden. Punia, who won the 65kg men's freestyle gold at the recent Asian championships, will be among top wrestlers selected by the American governing body for the May 6 tournament.

Asian champion Bajrang Punia is to become the first Indian wrestler to fight at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden. Punia, who won the 65kg men's freestyle gold at the recent Asian championships, will be among top wrestlers selected by the American governing body for the May 6 tournament. The 25-year-old will take on two-time US national champion Yianni Diakomahlis in the "Grapple at the Garden" Beat the Streets event which since 2010 has become a major showcase for international wrestling. "If you see it from a player's perspective then it is quite an experience fighting at Madison Square Garden. It's great exposure. But there is happiness and there is fear," Punia told AFP. "Happiness because I am the first Indian to be invited there. Fear because of my country's expectations whether I will be able to meet up with it or not," added Punia, who hails from Jhajjar district of the north Indian state of Haryana. Punia has eight gold medals from his previous nine international tournaments including last year's Commonwealth and Asian Games. Punia's mentor Yogeshwar Dutt who won the 60kg bronze at the 2012 London Olympics praised his achievement. "He has been winning all this time and he will triumph at Madison Square Garden," Dutt told AFP. "He wins finals everywhere he goes. I just tell him to keep working hard." American wrestler Kyle Snyder, who won the 97kg title at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, and Jordan Burroughs -- 2012 London Olympics gold winner -- are the other top attractions at the event.

Bajrang Punia first Indian wrestler to fight at New York's iconic Madison Square

World number one Bajrang Punia logged 10 points in a row in the gold medal bout to reclaim his Asian Championship crown, defeating Kazakhstan's Sayatbek Okassov 12-7 in a nail-biting 65kg men's freestyle final here Tuesday.

The CWG and Asian Games champion was trailing 2-7 with just 60 seconds to go for the final bell but the unperturbed Indian produced three gut wrench moves and an exposure move to take eight points after he began the attack with a two-point takedown.

The Kazkah was visibly tired while Bajrang showed immense stamina and brain under pressure to emerge triumphantly.

It is Bajrang's second gold at this championship, having won one in 2017. Overall, it was the fifth medal for the Indian in this tournament.

With this performance, Bajrang yet again sounded a warning to his opponents that he will be a strong medal contender at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

On his way to the final, Bajrang had conceded just one point.

He defeated Uzbekistan's Sirojiddin Khasanov 12-1 in the semi-final before winning by technical superiority against Charles Fern of Sri Lanka. He beat Peyman Biabani of Iran 6-0. &nbsp;

Another Indian in the gold medal contention is Parveen Rana, who entered the final in 79 kg category after a 3-2 win over Kazakhstan's Galymzhan Usserbayev.

He will face Bahman Mohammad Teymouri of Iran in his gold-medal bout.

Rana had defeated Yuta Abe of Japan and Mongolia's Tugs Erdene Denzensharav.

In the 57kg weight division, Ravi Kumar entered the bronze medal play-off round after winning his repechage against Chia Tso Liu of Taipei 4-0.

Ravi will be up against Yuki Takahashi of Japan.

Satywart Kadian, too, reached the bronze medal round in 97kg.

Kadian lost to Batzul Ulziisaikhan in his quarterfinal bout but went on to make the cut after his Mongolian rival reached the final.

Meanwhile, Rajneesh bowed out of the tournament early in 70 kg category.

World number one Bajrang Punia logged 10 points in a row in the gold medal bout to reclaim his Asian Championship crown, defeating Kazakhstan's Sayatbek Okassov 12-7 in a nail-biting 65kg men's freestyle final here Tuesday.

World number one Bajrang Punia logged 10 points in a row in the gold medal bout to reclaim his Asian Championship crown, defeating Kazakhstan's Sayatbek Okassov 12-7 in a nail-biting 65kg men's freestyle final here Tuesday. The CWG and Asian Games champion was trailing 2-7 with just 60 seconds to go for the final bell but the unperturbed Indian produced three gut wrench moves and an exposure move to take eight points after he began the attack with a two-point takedown. The Kazkah was visibly tired while Bajrang showed immense stamina and brain under pressure to emerge triumphantly. It is Bajrang's second gold at this championship, having won one in 2017. Overall, it was the fifth medal for the Indian in this tournament. With this performance, Bajrang yet again sounded a warning to his opponents that he will be a strong medal contender at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. On his way to the final, Bajrang had conceded just one point. He defeated Uzbekistan's Sirojiddin Khasanov 12-1 in the semi-final before winning by technical superiority against Charles Fern of Sri Lanka. He beat Peyman Biabani of Iran 6-0. Another Indian in the gold medal contention is Parveen Rana, who entered the final in 79 kg category after a 3-2 win over Kazakhstan's Galymzhan Usserbayev. He will face Bahman Mohammad Teymouri of Iran in his gold-medal bout. Rana had defeated Yuta Abe of Japan and Mongolia's Tugs Erdene Denzensharav. In the 57kg weight division, Ravi Kumar entered the bronze medal play-off round after winning his repechage against Chia Tso Liu of Taipei 4-0. Ravi will be up against Yuki Takahashi of Japan. Satywart Kadian, too, reached the bronze medal round in 97kg. Kadian lost to Batzul Ulziisaikhan in his quarterfinal bout but went on to make the cut after his Mongolian rival reached the final. Meanwhile, Rajneesh bowed out of the tournament early in 70 kg category.

Bajrang Punia reclaims gold at Asian Wrestling Championship with tough win in final

For distinguished service in sports, table tennis player Sharath Kamal, chess player Harika Dronavalli and Wrestler Bajrang Punia received Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honour by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday.&nbsp;

Harika is among the world's top-ranked chess players and has lead Indian women squads to several chess championships.&nbsp;

Sharath Kamal is a renowned name in table tennis, he has won over 60 international medals in the past 16 years.&nbsp;

Bajrang is a World Championship silver and bronze medallist besides winning gold at Asian Games and Commonwealth Games in 2018.&nbsp;

Forty-seven prominent personalities were conferred the Padma awards by President Kovind&nbsp;during a ceremonial function&nbsp;at Rashtrapati Bhawan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As many as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-shree-award-winners-full-list-192818">112&nbsp;personalities were selected</a> for this year's Padma awards and their names were announced on the eve of Republic Day this year.&nbsp;

The remaining awardees are likely to be conferred the honour at another function to be held on March 16, a Home Ministry official said.&nbsp;

The Padma Awards - one of the highest civilian awards of the country -- are conferred in three categories: the Padma Vibhushan, the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Shri.&nbsp;

Here is the list of sportspersons to get Padma awards this year:

Padma Bhushan

Bachendri Pal - Mountaineering

Padma Shri

Gautam Gambhir - Cricket

Harika Dronavalli - Chess

Sharath Kamal - Table Tennis

Bambayla Devi - Archery

Prashanti Singh - Basketball

Ajay Thakur - Kabaddi

Bajrang Punia - Wrestling

Sunil Chhetri - Football

For distinguished service in sports, table tennis player Sharath Kamal, chess player Harika Dronavalli and Wrestler Bajrang Punia received Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honour by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday.

For distinguished service in sports, table tennis player Sharath Kamal, chess player Harika Dronavalli and Wrestler Bajrang Punia received Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honour by Indian President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday. Harika is among the world's top-ranked chess players and has lead Indian women squads to several chess championships. Sharath Kamal is a renowned name in table tennis, he has won over 60 international medals in the past 16 years. Bajrang is a World Championship silver and bronze medallist besides winning gold at Asian Games and Commonwealth Games in 2018. Forty-seven prominent personalities were conferred the Padma awards by President Kovind during a ceremonial function at Rashtrapati Bhawan. As many as 112 personalities were selected for this year's Padma awards and their names were announced on the eve of Republic Day this year. The remaining awardees are likely to be conferred the honour at another function to be held on March 16, a Home Ministry official said. The Padma Awards - one of the highest civilian awards of the country -- are conferred in three categories: the Padma Vibhushan, the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Shri. Here is the list of sportspersons to get Padma awards this year: Padma Bhushan Bachendri Pal - Mountaineering Padma Shri Gautam Gambhir - Cricket Harika Dronavalli - Chess Sharath Kamal - Table Tennis Bambayla Devi - Archery Prashanti Singh - Basketball Ajay Thakur - Kabaddi Bajrang Punia - Wrestling Sunil Chhetri - Football

Bajrang Punia, Sharath Kamal, Harika Dronavalli conferred with Padma Shri by President Ram Nath Kovind

Mountaineer Bachendri Pal, who became the first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1984, was conferred with India's third highest civilian award, the Padma Bhushan.&nbsp;

The 64-year-old legendary mountaineer has been bestowed with the honour for "distinguished service of a high order".&nbsp;

While former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri and wrestler Bajrang Punia were among the recipients for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/padma-shree-award-winners-full-list-192818">Padma Shri</a>.&nbsp;

The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian honour after the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan.&nbsp;

Other sportspersons to have received the Padma Shri this year included Dronavalli Harika (chess), Sharath Kamal (table tennis), Bombayla Devi Laishram (archery), Ajay Thakur (kabaddi) and Prashanti Singh (basketball).&nbsp;

Gambhir played match-winning knocks in the finals of India's World T20 win in 2007 and the 2011 World Cup title triumph in 2011.&nbsp;

Footballer Chhetri has led the Indian football team with distinction for over a decade now, and is the all-time highest scorer in the country.&nbsp;

Bajrang is a World Championship silver and bronze medallist besides winning gold at Asian Games and Commonwealth Games in 2018.&nbsp;

Successful athletes such as Kamal, Bombayla Devi and Harika continue to represent India in their respective sports.&nbsp;

On the eve of the 70th Republic Day, the government announced that a total of 112 people this year will be awarded Padma awards - 4 Padma Vibushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri.&nbsp;

Here is the complete list:

Padma Bhusan

Bachendri Pal - Mountaineering

Padma Shri

Gautam Gambhir - Cricket

Harika Dronavalli - Chess

Sharath Kamal - Table Tennis

Bambayla Devi - Archery

Prashanti Singh - Basketball

Ajay Thakur - Kabaddi

Bajrang Punia - Wrestling

Sunil Chhetri (L), Gautam Gambhir (R).&nbsp;

Mountaineer Bachendri Pal, who became the first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1984, was conferred with India's third highest civilian award, the Padma Bhushan.

Mountaineer Bachendri Pal, who became the first Indian woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1984, was conferred with India's third highest civilian award, the Padma Bhushan. The 64-year-old legendary mountaineer has been bestowed with the honour for "distinguished service of a high order". While former cricketer Gautam Gambhir, Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri and wrestler Bajrang Punia were among the recipients for the Padma Shri. The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian honour after the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan. Other sportspersons to have received the Padma Shri this year included Dronavalli Harika (chess), Sharath Kamal (table tennis), Bombayla Devi Laishram (archery), Ajay Thakur (kabaddi) and Prashanti Singh (basketball). Gambhir played match-winning knocks in the finals of India's World T20 win in 2007 and the 2011 World Cup title triumph in 2011. Footballer Chhetri has led the Indian football team with distinction for over a decade now, and is the all-time highest scorer in the country. Bajrang is a World Championship silver and bronze medallist besides winning gold at Asian Games and Commonwealth Games in 2018. Successful athletes such as Kamal, Bombayla Devi and Harika continue to represent India in their respective sports. On the eve of the 70th Republic Day, the government announced that a total of 112 people this year will be awarded Padma awards - 4 Padma Vibushan, 14 Padma Bhushan and 94 Padma Shri. Here is the complete list: Padma Bhusan Bachendri Pal - Mountaineering Padma Shri Gautam Gambhir - Cricket Harika Dronavalli - Chess Sharath Kamal - Table Tennis Bambayla Devi - Archery Prashanti Singh - Basketball Ajay Thakur - Kabaddi Bajrang Punia - Wrestling Sunil Chhetri (L), Gautam Gambhir (R).

List of sports personalities who received Padma awards this year

Star Indian wrestler <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=bajrang+punia">Bajrang Punia</a> on Saturday touched a new high in his career by achieving the number one rank in the world in the 65kg category.&nbsp;

The 24-year-old Bajrang, who has won five medals this season, including CWG and Asian Games gold and a silver at the World Championship, was placed atop the ranking table with 96 points in the UWW list.&nbsp;

It has turned out to be a remarkable season for Bajrang, who was also the only Indian grappler to be given a seeding at the Budapest World Championship.&nbsp;

Bajrang is comfortably leading the table and Cuban Alejandro Enrique Vlades Tobier is a distant second with 66 points. Bajrang had won a close semifinal against Tobier in the Budapest Worlds.&nbsp;

Russia's Akhmed Chakaev (62) is in third place and the new world champion Takuto Otoguro (56) is at number four, followed by Turkey's Selahattin Kilicsallayan (50).&nbsp;

Interestingly, Bajrang is the lone male Indian to figure in top-10 but the country has five female wrestlers who are in top-10 bracket in their respective categories.&nbsp;

Pooja Dhanda, who became only the fourth Indian woman to win a World Championship medal, is now ranked sixth in the women's 57kg with 52 points. She had taken a bronze.&nbsp;

Ritu Phogat completes the top-10 in the women's 50kg, with 33 points.

Sarita Mor is ranked seventh in 59kg with 29 points while Navjot Kaur (32) and Kiran (37) are ninth in 68kg and 76kg category respectively.

Star Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia on Saturday touched a new high in his career by achieving the number one rank in the world in the 65kg category. The 24-year-old Bajrang, who has won five medals this season, including CWG and Asian Games gold and a silver at the World Championship, was placed atop the ranking table with 96 points in the UWW list.

Star Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia on Saturday touched a new high in his career by achieving the number one rank in the world in the 65kg category. The 24-year-old Bajrang, who has won five medals this season, including CWG and Asian Games gold and a silver at the World Championship, was placed atop the ranking table with 96 points in the UWW list. It has turned out to be a remarkable season for Bajrang, who was also the only Indian grappler to be given a seeding at the Budapest World Championship. Bajrang is comfortably leading the table and Cuban Alejandro Enrique Vlades Tobier is a distant second with 66 points. Bajrang had won a close semifinal against Tobier in the Budapest Worlds. Russia's Akhmed Chakaev (62) is in third place and the new world champion Takuto Otoguro (56) is at number four, followed by Turkey's Selahattin Kilicsallayan (50). Interestingly, Bajrang is the lone male Indian to figure in top-10 but the country has five female wrestlers who are in top-10 bracket in their respective categories. Pooja Dhanda, who became only the fourth Indian woman to win a World Championship medal, is now ranked sixth in the women's 57kg with 52 points. She had taken a bronze. Ritu Phogat completes the top-10 in the women's 50kg, with 33 points. Sarita Mor is ranked seventh in 59kg with 29 points while Navjot Kaur (32) and Kiran (37) are ninth in 68kg and 76kg category respectively.

Wrestler Bajrang Punia becomes number one in world in 65kg

India's star wrestler Bajrang Punia settled for a silver medal after losing the final of the World Wrestling Championships to Japan's Takuto Otoguro in Budapest on Monday.

Bajrang, who defeated Alejandro Valdes Tobier of Cuba 4-3 to enter the 65 kg Freestyle final, went down 9-16 to the Japanese.&nbsp;

The silver makes Punia the only Indian wrestler to win two medals at the Worlds.&nbsp;

The Commonwealth Games and Asian Games gold medallist had won a bronze in the 2013 edition.&nbsp;

Sushil Kumar still remains the only Indian to have won a gold at the Worlds, achieving the feat in 2010 in Moscow in the 66kg category. 
&nbsp;

India's star wrestler Bajrang Punia settled for a silver medal after losing the final of the World Wrestling Championships to Japan's Takuto Otoguro in Budapest on Monday.

India's star wrestler Bajrang Punia settled for a silver medal after losing the final of the World Wrestling Championships to Japan's Takuto Otoguro in Budapest on Monday. Bajrang, who defeated Alejandro Valdes Tobier of Cuba 4-3 to enter the 65 kg Freestyle final, went down 9-16 to the Japanese. The silver makes Punia the only Indian wrestler to win two medals at the Worlds. The Commonwealth Games and Asian Games gold medallist had won a bronze in the 2013 edition. Sushil Kumar still remains the only Indian to have won a gold at the Worlds, achieving the feat in 2010 in Moscow in the 66kg category.

Bajrang Punia loses final of World Wrestling Championships, settles for silver

Living up to the expectations, star Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia put himself in contention for a historic World Championship gold medal after quelling a spirited challenge from Alejandro Enrique Valdes Tobier in a tense 65kg semifinal here on Sunday.&nbsp;

The Commonwealth Games and Asian Games gold medallist ensured himself a second medal at the Worlds, having won a bronze at the 2013 edition. The in-form 24-year-old had come into the event as one of the strong medal contenders and has continued with his red-hot form this season.

Celebrated Sushil Kumar is the lone Indian to have won a gold medal at the Worlds, achieving the feat in 2010 in Moscow in the 66kg category.

If Bajrang manages to win gold, it will be a rare achievement to win titles at all major championships in a single season.&nbsp;

While he had dominated the competitions at CWG and Jakarta Asian Games this year, Bajrang's road to the final in Budapest was not easy as he had to use all his mental and physical prowess to down his Cuban opponent (4-3) in the semifinal after overcoming Mongolia's Tulga Tumur Ochir (5-3) win in the quarter-finals.

There were not many attacking moves in the semifinal with both Bajrang and Tobier mostly using the upper body power. Bajrang opened the scoring with a takedown but the Cuban reduced the margin by pushing the Indian out.

Seconds before the first break, Bajrang took a 4-1 lead with a throw move.

The second period was again very intense and no grappler could score a point until the Cuban found a two-point move at the edge of the circle. Pressure was mounting with

Bajrang's coach shouting 'attack' 'attack' from outside. Tobier tried everything but the Indian maintained his lead to emerge victorious.&nbsp;

Earlier, Bajrang defeated Roman Asharin 9-4 in the first round and beat Korean Lee Seungchul 4-0 but faced stiff competition from Tumur Ochir.

In other bouts of the day, Sandeep Tomar began in stupendous fashion but could not sustain the momentum. He outclassed his Guatemala opponent Jose Mox Arias by technical superiority in the 57kg category but lost the second round to Azerbaijan's Giorgi Edisherashvili.

Sachin Rathi was outplayed 1-13 by Mongolian wrestler Unurbat Purevjav in the 79kg qualification round.

Deepak, competing in the 92kg, lost his pre-quarterfinal bout 0-4 to Liubomyr Sagaliuk of Ukraine.

Living up to the expectations, star Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia put himself in contention for a historic World Championship gold medal after quelling a spirited challenge from Alejandro Enrique Valdes Tobier in a tense 65kg semifinal here on Sunday.

Living up to the expectations, star Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia put himself in contention for a historic World Championship gold medal after quelling a spirited challenge from Alejandro Enrique Valdes Tobier in a tense 65kg semifinal here on Sunday. The Commonwealth Games and Asian Games gold medallist ensured himself a second medal at the Worlds, having won a bronze at the 2013 edition. The in-form 24-year-old had come into the event as one of the strong medal contenders and has continued with his red-hot form this season. Celebrated Sushil Kumar is the lone Indian to have won a gold medal at the Worlds, achieving the feat in 2010 in Moscow in the 66kg category. If Bajrang manages to win gold, it will be a rare achievement to win titles at all major championships in a single season. While he had dominated the competitions at CWG and Jakarta Asian Games this year, Bajrang's road to the final in Budapest was not easy as he had to use all his mental and physical prowess to down his Cuban opponent (4-3) in the semifinal after overcoming Mongolia's Tulga Tumur Ochir (5-3) win in the quarter-finals. There were not many attacking moves in the semifinal with both Bajrang and Tobier mostly using the upper body power. Bajrang opened the scoring with a takedown but the Cuban reduced the margin by pushing the Indian out. Seconds before the first break, Bajrang took a 4-1 lead with a throw move. The second period was again very intense and no grappler could score a point until the Cuban found a two-point move at the edge of the circle. Pressure was mounting with Bajrang's coach shouting 'attack' 'attack' from outside. Tobier tried everything but the Indian maintained his lead to emerge victorious. Earlier, Bajrang defeated Roman Asharin 9-4 in the first round and beat Korean Lee Seungchul 4-0 but faced stiff competition from Tumur Ochir. In other bouts of the day, Sandeep Tomar began in stupendous fashion but could not sustain the momentum. He outclassed his Guatemala opponent Jose Mox Arias by technical superiority in the 57kg category but lost the second round to Azerbaijan's Giorgi Edisherashvili. Sachin Rathi was outplayed 1-13 by Mongolian wrestler Unurbat Purevjav in the 79kg qualification round. Deepak, competing in the 92kg, lost his pre-quarterfinal bout 0-4 to Liubomyr Sagaliuk of Ukraine.

Bajrang Punia gets closer to maiden World Championship gold

A dominant Bajrang Punia overpowered his opponents with remarkable ease to claim gold medal in the men's freestyle 65 kg event at the 21st Commonwealth Games, in Gold Coast on Friday.

The 24-year-old from Haryana dominated the proceedings against Wales' Kane Charig to register an emphatic 10-0 win to claim India's 16th gold medal on the eighth day of the Games at the Carrara Sports Arena.

Bajrang, who won a silver in Glasgow four years ago, was awarded the victory by technical superiority as he didn't give an inch to his opponent.

In fact, such was his dominance that Bajrang won all his bouts today on Technical Superiority as none of his rivals could pose a threat to him.

He had defeated New Zealand's Brahm Richards in the first bout, before outwitting Nigeria's Amas Daniel in the 1/4 final. He then dumped Canada's Vincent De Marinis in the semifinals.

A 2013 World Championship bronze medallist, Bajrang also won gold medals in the Commonwealth Championship in 2016 and 2017 at Singapore and Brakpan, South Africa respectively.

Pooja Dhanda made a late push in the women's 57kg final bout against Nigeria's Odunayo Adekuoroye but had to be content with a silver medal, losing 5-7.

Divya Kakran won bronze medal in the women's freestyle 68 kg by outplaying Bangladesh's Sherin Sultana 4-0, a victory by fall.

Earlier today, 15-year-old shooter Anish Bhanwala won the gold in the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol. Bhanwala is the youngest Indian to ever win the gold at the Commonwealth Games.

Shooter Tejaswini Sawant too clinched the coveted gold medal in the women's 50 meters Rifle 3 Positions. She had earlier won the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) on Thursday.

Bajrang defeated Kane Charig of Wales to earn his first gold medal of the games.

A dominant Bajrang Punia overpowered his opponents with remarkable ease to claim gold medal in the men's freestyle 65 kg event at the 21st Commonwealth Games, in Gold Coast on Friday. The 24-year-old from Haryana dominated the proceedings against Wales' Kane Charig to register an emphatic 10-0 win to claim India's 16th gold medal on the eighth day of the Games at the Carrara Sports Arena. Bajrang, who won a silver in Glasgow four years ago, was awarded the victory by technical superiority as he didn't give an inch to his opponent. In fact, such was his dominance that Bajrang won all his bouts today on Technical Superiority as none of his rivals could pose a threat to him. He had defeated New Zealand's Brahm Richards in the first bout, before outwitting Nigeria's Amas Daniel in the 1/4 final. He then dumped Canada's Vincent De Marinis in the semifinals. A 2013 World Championship bronze medallist, Bajrang also won gold medals in the Commonwealth Championship in 2016 and 2017 at Singapore and Brakpan, South Africa respectively. Pooja Dhanda made a late push in the women's 57kg final bout against Nigeria's Odunayo Adekuoroye but had to be content with a silver medal, losing 5-7. Divya Kakran won bronze medal in the women's freestyle 68 kg by outplaying Bangladesh's Sherin Sultana 4-0, a victory by fall. Earlier today, 15-year-old shooter Anish Bhanwala won the gold in the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol. Bhanwala is the youngest Indian to ever win the gold at the Commonwealth Games. Shooter Tejaswini Sawant too clinched the coveted gold medal in the women's 50 meters Rifle 3 Positions. She had earlier won the silver medal at the Commonwealth Games (CWG) on Thursday.

CWG 2018: Wrestler Bajrang Punia wins gold medal in men's freestyle 65kg

Indian wrestler&nbsp;Bajrang Punia (65 Kg) clinched the gold medal and Sarita Mor (58 kg) bagged a silver medal in the Asian Wrestling Championship Finals on Saturday.

Bajrang Punia defeated Lee Seungchul of South Korea by a score of 6-2. The 23-year-old had earlier fended off a challenge from Kim Kukgwang of North Korea 3-2 to enter the finals.

Whereas, Mor lost the final round to Tynybekova Aisuluu of Kyrgyzstan from 0-6.

Sarita moved to the finals after defeating her Vietnamese opponent Thi Huong Dao 12-0 (technical fall) in the last-four clash.

Earlier, Rio Olympic bronze-medallist Sakshi Malik had to settle for a Silver after losing against Risako Kawai of Japan by 0-10 in the gold medal match of the 60 kg category.

Meanwhile, another Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat had also lost her gold medal match against Sae Nanjo of Japan, going down 4-8 to in freestyle 55kg finals. Ritu Phogat also settled with a bronze medal in the 48kg category in women`s wrestling.

(ANI)&nbsp; 
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Bajrang Punia defeated Lee Seungchul of South Korea by a score of 6-2

Indian wrestler Bajrang Punia (65 Kg) clinched the gold medal and Sarita Mor (58 kg) bagged a silver medal in the Asian Wrestling Championship Finals on Saturday. Bajrang Punia defeated Lee Seungchul of South Korea by a score of 6-2. The 23-year-old had earlier fended off a challenge from Kim Kukgwang of North Korea 3-2 to enter the finals. Whereas, Mor lost the final round to Tynybekova Aisuluu of Kyrgyzstan from 0-6. Sarita moved to the finals after defeating her Vietnamese opponent Thi Huong Dao 12-0 (technical fall) in the last-four clash. Earlier, Rio Olympic bronze-medallist Sakshi Malik had to settle for a Silver after losing against Risako Kawai of Japan by 0-10 in the gold medal match of the 60 kg category. Meanwhile, another Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat had also lost her gold medal match against Sae Nanjo of Japan, going down 4-8 to in freestyle 55kg finals. Ritu Phogat also settled with a bronze medal in the 48kg category in women`s wrestling. (ANI)

Bajrang Punia clinches gold for India in Asian Wrestling Championship?

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