<p>On Thursday (Dec 21), Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik announced her retirement from wrestling following the appointment of Sanjay Singh as the new Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. Since Sanjay is a close aide of Brij Bhushan Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by six female wrestlers, Sakshi was unhappy with the appointment and&nbsp;conveyed her decision&nbsp;to the press in the national capital.</p>

<p>"We slept for 40 days on the roads and a lot of people from several parts of the country came to support us. If Brij Bhushan Singh's business partner and a close aide is elected as the president of WFI, I quit wrestling," the star wrestler said at the Press Club of India on Thursday.</p>

<p>Later, Olympic boxing medallist Vijender Singh empathised with Sakshi and&nbsp;claimed that her angst was understandable after the Rio Olympics bronze medallist decided to quit. He&nbsp;feels her decision should be seen as&nbsp;a 'serious issue'.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympic-medalist-sakshi-malik-to-quit-wrestling-after-brij-bhushan-aid-sanjay-singh-wins-wfi-elections-672172">Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik quits wrestling after Brij Bhushan aide Sanjay Singh wins WFI elections</a></strong></p>

<p>Vijender was quoted as saying by India Today, "As a player, it feels very bad because, after a lot of hard work, an athlete reaches that level. She is an Olympic medallist, a Commonwealth Games medalist and an Asian Games medallist. All these wrestlers, including Sakshi, Vinesh and Bajrang, have won medals at the highest level for the country," Vijender Singh said.</p>

<p>"When Sakshi said she would quit wrestling because of the way the election took place, I think it's a serious issue. This raises a lot of questions about the democratic processes involved," he added.</p>

<p>Over the past months, Sakshi, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia led the protests hoping&nbsp;for a change of guard at the WFI.&nbsp;Following the much-delayed elections, Brij Bhushan's&nbsp;loyalist Sanjay&nbsp;emerged on top eventually, claiming 40 out of 47 votes.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Sanjay's family reacted to him succeeding Brij Bhushan and backed him to fulfil the role with utmost sincerity. Sanjay's mother Gyanati Devi also claimed that she knows Brij Bhushan and termed all allegations against him as "baseless".</p>


On Thursday (Dec 21), Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik announced her retirement from wrestling following the appointment of Sanjay Singh as the new Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief.

On Thursday (Dec 21), Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik announced her retirement from wrestling following the appointment of Sanjay Singh as the new Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief. Since Sanjay is a close aide of Brij Bhushan Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by six female wrestlers, Sakshi was unhappy with the appointment and conveyed her decision to the press in the national capital. "We slept for 40 days on the roads and a lot of people from several parts of the country came to support us. If Brij Bhushan Singh's business partner and a close aide is elected as the president of WFI, I quit wrestling," the star wrestler said at the Press Club of India on Thursday. Later, Olympic boxing medallist Vijender Singh empathised with Sakshi and claimed that her angst was understandable after the Rio Olympics bronze medallist decided to quit. He feels her decision should be seen as a 'serious issue'. Also read: Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik quits wrestling after Brij Bhushan aide Sanjay Singh wins WFI elections Vijender was quoted as saying by India Today, "As a player, it feels very bad because, after a lot of hard work, an athlete reaches that level. She is an Olympic medallist, a Commonwealth Games medalist and an Asian Games medallist. All these wrestlers, including Sakshi, Vinesh and Bajrang, have won medals at the highest level for the country," Vijender Singh said. "When Sakshi said she would quit wrestling because of the way the election took place, I think it's a serious issue. This raises a lot of questions about the democratic processes involved," he added. Over the past months, Sakshi, Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia led the protests hoping for a change of guard at the WFI. Following the much-delayed elections, Brij Bhushan's loyalist Sanjay emerged on top eventually, claiming 40 out of 47 votes. Meanwhile, Sanjay's family reacted to him succeeding Brij Bhushan and backed him to fulfil the role with utmost sincerity. Sanjay's mother Gyanati Devi also claimed that she knows Brij Bhushan and termed all allegations against him as "baseless".

Sakshi Malik retiring a 'serious issue', raises questions about democratic process: Vijender Singh

<p>The notification to conduct the postponed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections is likely to be out on or after Dec 8 (Friday). The Supreme Court recently lifted&nbsp;the stay imposed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, leading to the process of electing the new WFI governing body.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that an IOA-constituted ad-hoc panel is currently in charge of the day-to-day activities of the WFI. This happened following&nbsp;the suspension of the federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment levelled by top Indian wrestlers, early this year.</p>

<p>It led to a huge uproar as top Indian wrestlers took to the streets to kick off a protest against Brij Bhushan and asked for his removal&nbsp;at the earliest&nbsp;for alleged sexual harassment of female grapplers. It became a nationwide controversy in no time.</p>

<p>As a result, the election process -- which was set in motion in July -- was considerably delayed. In addition,&nbsp;it&nbsp;led to the suspension of WFI by the international federation, United World Wrestling, for not being able to hold fresh polls within the stipulated time period.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/with-t20-world-cup-on-mind-bcci-nca-pen-18-week-high-performance-programme-for-hardik-pandya-666565">With T20 World Cup on mind, BCCI, NCA pen 18-week high-performance programme for Hardik Pandya</a></strong></p>

<p>"The way is paved for holding elections of WFI which were stayed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on August 11, just a day before the date fixed for holding elections," said a statement from the office of the returning officer.</p>

<p>"Returning officer asked Mr Bajwa to inform if there is any change in the electoral college already notified on 25.07.2023... he was asked to provide this information at the earliest. Mr Bajwa sought one week time. Let complete information be furnished within 5 days i.e. on or before 8th December so that final notification for holding elections be issued," carried a&nbsp;statement issued by assistant returning officer Tapas Bhattacharya.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that following the suspension of the WFI,&nbsp;Indian wrestlers have participated in international competitions under the UWW flag.&nbsp;</p>


The notification to conduct the postponed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections is likely to be out on or after Dec 8 (Friday). The Supreme Court recently lifted the stay imposed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, leading to the process of electing the new WFI governing body.

The notification to conduct the postponed Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections is likely to be out on or after Dec 8 (Friday). The Supreme Court recently lifted the stay imposed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, leading to the process of electing the new WFI governing body. It is to be noted that an IOA-constituted ad-hoc panel is currently in charge of the day-to-day activities of the WFI. This happened following the suspension of the federation chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment levelled by top Indian wrestlers, early this year. It led to a huge uproar as top Indian wrestlers took to the streets to kick off a protest against Brij Bhushan and asked for his removal at the earliest for alleged sexual harassment of female grapplers. It became a nationwide controversy in no time. As a result, the election process -- which was set in motion in July -- was considerably delayed. In addition, it led to the suspension of WFI by the international federation, United World Wrestling, for not being able to hold fresh polls within the stipulated time period. Also read: With T20 World Cup on mind, BCCI, NCA pen 18-week high-performance programme for Hardik Pandya "The way is paved for holding elections of WFI which were stayed by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on August 11, just a day before the date fixed for holding elections," said a statement from the office of the returning officer. "Returning officer asked Mr Bajwa to inform if there is any change in the electoral college already notified on 25.07.2023... he was asked to provide this information at the earliest. Mr Bajwa sought one week time. Let complete information be furnished within 5 days i.e. on or before 8th December so that final notification for holding elections be issued," carried a statement issued by assistant returning officer Tapas Bhattacharya. It is to be noted that following the suspension of the WFI, Indian wrestlers have participated in international competitions under the UWW flag.

Notification to conduct the stalled WFI elections to be out on or after Dec 8

Asian Games 2023: Disciplines with Most Medals for India

India is barred from being a member of the United World Wrestling Body. The world governing body for wrestling suspended the membership of the Wrestling Federation of India. The UWW conveyed its decision in a letter sent to the Indian Olympic Association.

Why did the World Wrestling body suspend membership in the Wrestling Federation of India?

<p>On Thursday (August 24), the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) was suspended by the United World Wrestling (UWW) for its failure to conduct timely elections. As a result, it will now prevent Indian wrestlers from competing at the World Championships, in Budapest, under the national flag. In the World C'ships, wrestling gets underway on September 16 and will conclude on September 25.&nbsp;The Indian wrestlers&nbsp;will now&nbsp;compete as neutral athletes. The suspension came after the WFI's ad-hoc panel, spearheaded&nbsp;by Bhupender Singh Bajwa, could not honour the 45-day deadline for conducting the elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the ban of the WFI, Indian wrestlers can still compete under the national flag at the Asian Games, which kicks off on&nbsp;September 23. It is to be noted that entries are sent by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and not the WFI, PTI news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the IOA&nbsp;had appointed the ad-hoc panel on April 27. The very next day, the UWW had issued a warning that it could suspend the Indian federation if the deadline is not met in terms of holding the elections.</p>

<p>“The UWW communicated to the ad-hoc panel on Wednesday night that WFI has been suspended for not holding elections to its executive committee," an IOA source was quoted as saying by PTI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-wrestling-body-suspends-wfi-in-massive-blow-for-india-after-failure-to-conduct-elections-628653">World wrestling body suspends WFI in massive blow for India after failure to conduct elections</a></strong></p>

<p>The suspension displays everything wrong happening in Indian wrestling. It has exposed the internal struggles within the ad-hoc panel, with panel member Gian Singh pointing fingers at Bajwa for a lack of transparency. This mismanagement and blame-game escalated and led to the colossal&nbsp;failure of the WFI to conduct timely elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gian told PTI, "I have also heard that WFI has been suspended but I can’t tell you what the ad-hoc panel will do now. Mr Bajwa does not call us for discussion any more. I did not even know how the criteria were finalised for the Worlds trials."<br />
<br />
“Mr Bajwa is too busy, it seems," he added.</p>

<p>The wrestling body was set to host its elections on May 07. Due to various reasons, such as a series of legal complaints and court stays from multiple dissatisfied state bodies, the elections got delayed repeatedly.</p>

<p>This governing body turmoil follows recent successes within Indian wrestling. The national women’s team had recently won the team title at the U-20 World Championships for the first time, defeating powerhouse nations including Japan and USA.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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On Thursday (August 24), the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) was suspended by the United World Wrestling (UWW) for its failure to conduct timely elections. As a result, it will now prevent Indian wrestlers from competing at the World Championships, in Budapest, under the national flag.

On Thursday (August 24), the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) was suspended by the United World Wrestling (UWW) for its failure to conduct timely elections. As a result, it will now prevent Indian wrestlers from competing at the World Championships, in Budapest, under the national flag. In the World C'ships, wrestling gets underway on September 16 and will conclude on September 25. The Indian wrestlers will now compete as neutral athletes. The suspension came after the WFI's ad-hoc panel, spearheaded by Bhupender Singh Bajwa, could not honour the 45-day deadline for conducting the elections. Despite the ban of the WFI, Indian wrestlers can still compete under the national flag at the Asian Games, which kicks off on September 23. It is to be noted that entries are sent by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and not the WFI, PTI news agency reported. Earlier, the IOA had appointed the ad-hoc panel on April 27. The very next day, the UWW had issued a warning that it could suspend the Indian federation if the deadline is not met in terms of holding the elections. “The UWW communicated to the ad-hoc panel on Wednesday night that WFI has been suspended for not holding elections to its executive committee," an IOA source was quoted as saying by PTI. Also read: World wrestling body suspends WFI in massive blow for India after failure to conduct elections The suspension displays everything wrong happening in Indian wrestling. It has exposed the internal struggles within the ad-hoc panel, with panel member Gian Singh pointing fingers at Bajwa for a lack of transparency. This mismanagement and blame-game escalated and led to the colossal failure of the WFI to conduct timely elections. Gian told PTI, "I have also heard that WFI has been suspended but I can’t tell you what the ad-hoc panel will do now. Mr Bajwa does not call us for discussion any more. I did not even know how the criteria were finalised for the Worlds trials." “Mr Bajwa is too busy, it seems," he added. The wrestling body was set to host its elections on May 07. Due to various reasons, such as a series of legal complaints and court stays from multiple dissatisfied state bodies, the elections got delayed repeatedly. This governing body turmoil follows recent successes within Indian wrestling. The national women’s team had recently won the team title at the U-20 World Championships for the first time, defeating powerhouse nations including Japan and USA. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian wrestlers to compete in World Championships under neutral flag after WFI's suspension

Deep inside the dark alleys of the democratic republic of Congo's capital, Kinshasa, a unique sport that thrives under the moonlight is garnering attention. We tell you more about Voodoo-wrestling, a sport aced using technique, courage, and yes, magic.

Vodoo wrestling in democratic Republic of Congo

<p>On Tuesday (July 18),&nbsp;the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) ad-hoc panel surprised one and all as it granted direct entries into the Asian Games to Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat. The decision has not been well received. It has been taken without the consent of the national chief selectors and irked many other wrestlers and coaches.</p>

<p>Moreover, the WFI made it clear that&nbsp;trials will still take place for all six weight categories across the three styles of wrestling despite them already&nbsp;selecting the wrestlers for the men's freestyle 65kg and women's 53kg categories. After this big step, young wrestler Antim Panghal -&nbsp;who competes in the 53kg category -&nbsp;lashed out at the decision and questioned Vinesh's selection.</p>

<h2><strong>'Vinesh got entry despite not practising for the past year'</strong></h2>

<p>In a video, Panghal -- silver medallist in the senior Asian Championship -- stated, "Vinesh (Phogat) has been given direct entry for Asian Games despite that she has not been practised for past one year. I won the gold medal in the 2022 Junior World Championship. Even in the Commonwealth Games trial, I had a 3-3 bout with her. Then too, I was cheated. Should I quit wrestling? All I want is a fair trial."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-satwiksairaj-smashes-guinness-world-record-with-fastest-badminton-hits-during-korea-open-617095">Badminton: Satwiksairaj 'smashes' Guinness world record with fastest hits during Korea Open</a></strong></p>

<p>Further, Panghal reminded one and all of her recent feats and mentioned Vinesh has no significant achievement under her belt. "Last year, in the Junior World Championships, I won a gold medal and became the first woman wrestler from India to achieve this feat. In the 2023 Asian Championships, I won a silver medal, but Vinesh has no achievement to show in the last year. She was also injured," the 19-year-old pointed out.</p>

<h2><strong>'What is so special about Vinesh?'</strong></h2>

<p>Panghal further highlighted, "Sakshi Malik has also won an Olympic medal, she too is not being sent. What is so special about Vinesh&nbsp;that she is being sent? Just organise trials. I am not saying that I am the only one who can beat Vinesh. There are several other girls who can beat her."</p>

<p>She asserted, "When the CWG trials were taking place, I had bouts against her, then they (officials) cheated me. I said koi nahin (it's okay), I will try to qualify for the Olympics by going to the (Hangzhou) Asian Games. But now they are saying they will send Vinesh. This is not done. They are also saying that the one who goes for the Asian Games will also go for the World Championships. And, the one who wins a medal at the Worlds will go to the Olympics (in Paris). We have also been training hard for years. So, what about us?" In addition, Panghal said, "Should we leave wrestling? Tell us on what basis is she (Vinesh) being sent."</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Panghal has made heads turn of late with her performances. The teenager became India's U-20 World Champion in 2022 and clinched the silver medal at the senior Asian Championship early this year. Bajrang and Vinesh, on the other hand, have displayed exceptional performances in the past but&nbsp;their participation in international tournaments in the ongoing calendar year has been non-existent following their protest against WFI chief&nbsp;Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for sexual harassment.</p>

<p>The forthcoming Asian Games will commence on September 23 and conclude on October 08. They will take place in&nbsp;Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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On Tuesday (July 18), the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) ad-hoc panel surprised one and all as it granted direct entries into the Asian Games to Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat.

On Tuesday (July 18), the Wrestling Federation of India's (WFI) ad-hoc panel surprised one and all as it granted direct entries into the Asian Games to Olympic bronze medallist Bajrang Punia and World Championship medallist Vinesh Phogat. The decision has not been well received. It has been taken without the consent of the national chief selectors and irked many other wrestlers and coaches. Moreover, the WFI made it clear that trials will still take place for all six weight categories across the three styles of wrestling despite them already selecting the wrestlers for the men's freestyle 65kg and women's 53kg categories. After this big step, young wrestler Antim Panghal - who competes in the 53kg category - lashed out at the decision and questioned Vinesh's selection. 'Vinesh got entry despite not practising for the past year' In a video, Panghal -- silver medallist in the senior Asian Championship -- stated, "Vinesh (Phogat) has been given direct entry for Asian Games despite that she has not been practised for past one year. I won the gold medal in the 2022 Junior World Championship. Even in the Commonwealth Games trial, I had a 3-3 bout with her. Then too, I was cheated. Should I quit wrestling? All I want is a fair trial." Also Read: Badminton: Satwiksairaj 'smashes' Guinness world record with fastest hits during Korea Open Further, Panghal reminded one and all of her recent feats and mentioned Vinesh has no significant achievement under her belt. "Last year, in the Junior World Championships, I won a gold medal and became the first woman wrestler from India to achieve this feat. In the 2023 Asian Championships, I won a silver medal, but Vinesh has no achievement to show in the last year. She was also injured," the 19-year-old pointed out. 'What is so special about Vinesh?' Panghal further highlighted, "Sakshi Malik has also won an Olympic medal, she too is not being sent. What is so special about Vinesh that she is being sent? Just organise trials. I am not saying that I am the only one who can beat Vinesh. There are several other girls who can beat her." She asserted, "When the CWG trials were taking place, I had bouts against her, then they (officials) cheated me. I said koi nahin (it's okay), I will try to qualify for the Olympics by going to the (Hangzhou) Asian Games. But now they are saying they will send Vinesh. This is not done. They are also saying that the one who goes for the Asian Games will also go for the World Championships. And, the one who wins a medal at the Worlds will go to the Olympics (in Paris). We have also been training hard for years. So, what about us?" In addition, Panghal said, "Should we leave wrestling? Tell us on what basis is she (Vinesh) being sent." It is to be noted that Panghal has made heads turn of late with her performances. The teenager became India's U-20 World Champion in 2022 and clinched the silver medal at the senior Asian Championship early this year. Bajrang and Vinesh, on the other hand, have displayed exceptional performances in the past but their participation in international tournaments in the ongoing calendar year has been non-existent following their protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for sexual harassment. The forthcoming Asian Games will commence on September 23 and conclude on October 08. They will take place in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wrestling: 'Should I quit?' Antim Panghal reacts after Vinesh Phogat gets direct entry in Asian Games

AEW: All In London is set to take place on Sunday, August 27, at Wembley Stadium. The event will get underway at around 6pm. It will be the first professional wrestling match to be held at the iconic stadium since WWE SummerSlam in 1992.

AEW all in 2023 officially announced from London in summertime

<p>In a surprising confession on Thursday, the father of the minor wrestler revealed that a false police complaint of sexual harassment against India's wrestling body chief was purposely made.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that their motive was to seek revenge against him for what they believed was an unfair treatment of their daughter.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-nuclear-weapon-of-software-wion-speaks-to-deepai-founder-kevin-baragona-602187">AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona</a></p>

<p>When asked why he is changing his statement now, the father told PTI news agency, “It’s better that truth comes out now instead of court."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Now that interactions have started, the government has promised fair enquiry into my daughter’s defeat (in Asian U17 championship trials) last year, so it is also my duty that I rectify my mistake,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This came a day after the Indian Union Sports Minister of India Anurag Thakur promised the protesting wrestlers that the investigation into the sexual harassment case against the WFI chief will be looked into by&nbsp;June 15.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-anti-gay-protests-in-los-angeles-after-school-votes-on-recognizing-june-as-pride-month-602146">Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month</a></p>

<p>With this latest development, the case is believed to be significantly weakened.</p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been under fire as many renowned Indian wrestlers have been holding continuous protests for the past six months. They have accused India's wrestling body chief of sexual harassment and urged the government to take steps to address the issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complaint by the young wrestler also prompted an investigation under the POCSO Act.</p>

<h2><strong>Animosity rooted in Under 17 Asian Championship trials</strong></h2>

<p>The father further explained the reason for their animosity towards Singh. He detailed the events that led to it.</p>

<p>According to him, the animosity originated from the 2022 Under 17 Asian Championship trials in Lucknow, where the young wrestler lost the final match and missed out on being selected for the Indian team.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits</strong></p>

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<p>They held Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accountable for the referee's decision, and the father stated that he was consumed by anger when he saw that his child's year-long hard work was wasted due to the referee's decision in the final.</p>

<p>“I was filled with rage my child’s one-year hard work had gone down the drain because of that referee’s decision in the final and I decided to take revenge,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It's important to note that Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has vehemently denied all allegations of sexual harassment, including those made by the minor wrestler.</p>

<p>"I had a long 6-hour discussion with the wrestlers. We have assured wrestlers that the probe will be completed by 15th June and chargesheets will be submitted. The election of WFI will be done by 30th June," Anurag Thakur had said when he met the wrestlers.</p>

<p>The sports minister also pledged that Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections will be conducted before the end of June in order to avoid a potential ban on the body. The situation in the country over wrestlers' protests remains tense. Earlier, the United World Wrestling (UWW) on May 30 threatened to suspend India's wrestling body.</p>

<p>"It was a very positive discussion with the agitating wrestlers. All the issues that came from their side were discussed seriously. We have said that the chargesheet will be filed by June 15 and the Wrestling Federation of India's elections will be held by June 30. For the players, the Internal Complaint Committee will be formed and a woman player or an official will be made its chairperson," Thakur told media personnel.&nbsp;</p>

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In a surprising confession on Thursday, the father of the minor wrestler revealed that a false police complaint of sexual harassment against India's wrestling body chief was purposely made.

In a surprising confession on Thursday, the father of the minor wrestler revealed that a false police complaint of sexual harassment against India's wrestling body chief was purposely made. He said that their motive was to seek revenge against him for what they believed was an unfair treatment of their daughter. Also Read | AI 'nuclear weapon of software': WION speaks to DeepAI founder Kevin Baragona When asked why he is changing his statement now, the father told PTI news agency, “It’s better that truth comes out now instead of court." “Now that interactions have started, the government has promised fair enquiry into my daughter’s defeat (in Asian U17 championship trials) last year, so it is also my duty that I rectify my mistake,” he added. This came a day after the Indian Union Sports Minister of India Anurag Thakur promised the protesting wrestlers that the investigation into the sexual harassment case against the WFI chief will be looked into by June 15. Also Read | Anti-gay protests in Los Angeles after school votes on recognizing June as Pride month With this latest development, the case is believed to be significantly weakened. It is pertinent to note that WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has been under fire as many renowned Indian wrestlers have been holding continuous protests for the past six months. They have accused India's wrestling body chief of sexual harassment and urged the government to take steps to address the issue. The complaint by the young wrestler also prompted an investigation under the POCSO Act. Animosity rooted in Under 17 Asian Championship trials The father further explained the reason for their animosity towards Singh. He detailed the events that led to it. According to him, the animosity originated from the 2022 Under 17 Asian Championship trials in Lucknow, where the young wrestler lost the final match and missed out on being selected for the Indian team. Watch | CNN Chairman and CEO Chris Licht quits × They held Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accountable for the referee's decision, and the father stated that he was consumed by anger when he saw that his child's year-long hard work was wasted due to the referee's decision in the final. “I was filled with rage my child’s one-year hard work had gone down the drain because of that referee’s decision in the final and I decided to take revenge,” he said. It's important to note that Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh has vehemently denied all allegations of sexual harassment, including those made by the minor wrestler. "I had a long 6-hour discussion with the wrestlers. We have assured wrestlers that the probe will be completed by 15th June and chargesheets will be submitted. The election of WFI will be done by 30th June," Anurag Thakur had said when he met the wrestlers. The sports minister also pledged that Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) elections will be conducted before the end of June in order to avoid a potential ban on the body. The situation in the country over wrestlers' protests remains tense. Earlier, the United World Wrestling (UWW) on May 30 threatened to suspend India's wrestling body. "It was a very positive discussion with the agitating wrestlers. All the issues that came from their side were discussed seriously. We have said that the chargesheet will be filed by June 15 and the Wrestling Federation of India's elections will be held by June 30. For the players, the Internal Complaint Committee will be formed and a woman player or an official will be made its chairperson," Thakur told media personnel. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Filed false sexual harassment case against India's wrestling body chief: Father of minor wrestler

<p>Indian wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)'s chief Brij Bhushan Singh&nbsp;for alleged sexual harassment has been making the headlines for quite long. Their protest has extended to over a month and seems to be far away from getting close to a conclusion. On Sunday (May 28), Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and Sakshi Malik-led protesting wrestlers marched towards the new parliament, when it was being inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to demand justice but were stopped by the Delhi Police.</p>

<p>It led to a huge chaos just a few kilometres away from the new parliament, which made headlines. Images of wrestlers being detained by the police saddened many in the country. Amid all this, some pictures were also circulated on social media platforms which showed the wrestlers smiling after being detained by the cops.</p>

<p>Bajrang Punia has now reacted to all such images and said 'IT cell people' are spreading this false picture.&nbsp;He shared two images, one fake and the other being a genuine one saying, "IT cell people are spreading this false picture. We make it clear that a complaint will be filed against whoever posted this fake picture."</p>

<p><strong>Here's the tweet:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">IT Cell वाले ये झूठी तस्वीर फैला रहे हैं। हम ये साफ़ कर देते हैं की जो भी ये फ़र्ज़ी तस्वीर पोस्ट करेगा उसके ख़िलाफ़ शिकायत दर्ज की जाएगी। <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WrestlersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WrestlersProtest</a> <a href="https://t.co/a0MngT1kUa">pic.twitter.com/a0MngT1kUa</a></p>
— Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) <a href="https://twitter.com/BajrangPunia/status/1662820142454312968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/international-wrestling-body-gets-involved-in-indian-grapplers-protest-asks-wfi-to-hold-elections-in-45-days-598641">International wrestling body gets involved in Indian grapplers' protest, asks WFI to hold elections in 45 days</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>UWW joins in, comes in support of protesting wrestlers</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (May 31), the United World Wrestling (UWW) also reacted to the ongoing protest&nbsp;being held at&nbsp;Jantar Mantar in the national capital. It further issued a warning to the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) asking to conduct the elections within the next 45 days. In addition, the international body slammed the speed of investigation in the charges levelled by WFI's member athletes against Brij Bhushan Singh.</p>

<p>"UWW firmly condemns the treatment and detention of the wrestlers. It expresses its disappointment over the lack of results of the investigations so far. UWW urges the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations," UWW said.</p>

<p>"UWW will request further information about the next elective general assembly from the 10A and the Ad-hoc Committee of the WFI. The 45-day deadline that was initially set to hold this elective assembly shall be respected. Failing to do so may lead UWW to suspend the federation, thereby forcing the athletes to compete under a neutral flag. It is reminded that UWW already took a measure in this situation by reallocating the Asian Championship planned in New Delhi earlier this year."</p>

<p>"For several months, United World Wrestling has followed with great concern the situation in India where wrestlers are protesting over allegations of abuse and harassment by the President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). It has taken due note that the WFI President has been put aside at an early stage and is currently not in charge," UWW further asserted.</p>

<p>"As it has already done since the beginning of this situation, UWW will hold a meeting with the wrestlers to inquire about their condition and safety and reconfirm our support for a fair and just resolution of their concerns," the statement added after the wrestlers threatened to immerse their medals in holy River Ganges, on Tuesday (May 30), before withdrawing from it eventually.</p>

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Indian wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)'s chief Brij Bhushan Singh for alleged sexual harassment has been making the headlines for quite long.

Indian wrestlers' protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI)'s chief Brij Bhushan Singh for alleged sexual harassment has been making the headlines for quite long. Their protest has extended to over a month and seems to be far away from getting close to a conclusion. On Sunday (May 28), Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, and Sakshi Malik-led protesting wrestlers marched towards the new parliament, when it was being inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to demand justice but were stopped by the Delhi Police. It led to a huge chaos just a few kilometres away from the new parliament, which made headlines. Images of wrestlers being detained by the police saddened many in the country. Amid all this, some pictures were also circulated on social media platforms which showed the wrestlers smiling after being detained by the cops. Bajrang Punia has now reacted to all such images and said 'IT cell people' are spreading this false picture. He shared two images, one fake and the other being a genuine one saying, "IT cell people are spreading this false picture. We make it clear that a complaint will be filed against whoever posted this fake picture." Here's the tweet: IT Cell वाले ये झूठी तस्वीर फैला रहे हैं। हम ये साफ़ कर देते हैं की जो भी ये फ़र्ज़ी तस्वीर पोस्ट करेगा उसके ख़िलाफ़ शिकायत दर्ज की जाएगी। #WrestlersProtest pic.twitter.com/a0MngT1kUa — Bajrang Punia 🇮🇳 (@BajrangPunia) May 28, 2023 × Also Read: International wrestling body gets involved in Indian grapplers' protest, asks WFI to hold elections in 45 days UWW joins in, comes in support of protesting wrestlers On Wednesday (May 31), the United World Wrestling (UWW) also reacted to the ongoing protest being held at Jantar Mantar in the national capital. It further issued a warning to the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) asking to conduct the elections within the next 45 days. In addition, the international body slammed the speed of investigation in the charges levelled by WFI's member athletes against Brij Bhushan Singh. "UWW firmly condemns the treatment and detention of the wrestlers. It expresses its disappointment over the lack of results of the investigations so far. UWW urges the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations," UWW said. "UWW will request further information about the next elective general assembly from the 10A and the Ad-hoc Committee of the WFI. The 45-day deadline that was initially set to hold this elective assembly shall be respected. Failing to do so may lead UWW to suspend the federation, thereby forcing the athletes to compete under a neutral flag. It is reminded that UWW already took a measure in this situation by reallocating the Asian Championship planned in New Delhi earlier this year." "For several months, United World Wrestling has followed with great concern the situation in India where wrestlers are protesting over allegations of abuse and harassment by the President of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI). It has taken due note that the WFI President has been put aside at an early stage and is currently not in charge," UWW further asserted. "As it has already done since the beginning of this situation, UWW will hold a meeting with the wrestlers to inquire about their condition and safety and reconfirm our support for a fair and just resolution of their concerns," the statement added after the wrestlers threatened to immerse their medals in holy River Ganges, on Tuesday (May 30), before withdrawing from it eventually. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bajrang Punia reacts to morphed images of protesting wrestlers, claims 'IT cell' people are spreading this

When a brawl broke out between them and the police late on Wednesday night, the protest by prominent Indian wrestlers in New Delhi took a terrible turn. The wrestlers alleged that the cops assaulted them, injuring a few grapplers as a result.

India's Jantar Mantar Descends into Chaos: Wrestlers Clash with Police in Late-Night Scuffle

<p>India's wrestling star Vinesh Phogat, who is among the ones spearheading the wrestlers' protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, has slammed Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and made a big accusation. Phogat, who has been vocal in criticising those in power amid the protest against Brij Bhushan on sexual harassment accusations, claimed that Thakur tried to suppress the matter by forming a committee.</p>

<p>Addressing the media, Olympian Phogat said on Tuesday (May 02), "It is very difficult to stand against a person who is misusing his power and position for so long. Three-four months before we sat at Jantar Mantar, we met an official, we told him everything that how women athletes are sexually harassed and mentally tortured. When no action was taken, then we sat on dharna."</p>

<p>She further asserted, "We ended our protest after talking to Union Sports Minister (Anurag Thakur), and all the athletes had told him about the sexual harassment. By forming a committee, he tried to suppress the matter there; no action was taken at that time."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-mess-bajrang-punia-gives-befitting-reply-to-anurag-thakurs-spent-12-hours-with-wrestlers-remark-587486">Wrestling mess: Bajrang Punia gives befitting reply to Anurag Thakur's ‘spent 12 hours with wrestlers' remark</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>'Will remain till Brij Bhushan goes to jail'</strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Olympic medal-winning athlete Bajrang Punia addressed the media, on Wednesday (May 03), after Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha met the wrestling group at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. He revealed that the wrestlers will continue their protest till Brij Bhushan isn't behind bars. Speaking to the media, he said, "PT Usha met us and assured her support. She said she is first an athlete and then an administrator. She assured us she will help us in getting justice. We will remain here till Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh goes to jail."</p>

<p>The likes of Bajrang, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh, etc., have led the protest, held in the national capital after as many as&nbsp;seven female&nbsp;wrestlers --&nbsp;grabbed&nbsp;eyeballs and become a huge talking point nationwide.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, WFI chief Brij Bhushan has denied all claims. He recently stated, "Resignation&nbsp;is no big deal, but I won't do it as a criminal".</p>

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India's wrestling star Vinesh Phogat, who is among the ones spearheading the wrestlers' protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, has slammed Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and made a big accusation.

India's wrestling star Vinesh Phogat, who is among the ones spearheading the wrestlers' protest against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Singh, has slammed Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur and made a big accusation. Phogat, who has been vocal in criticising those in power amid the protest against Brij Bhushan on sexual harassment accusations, claimed that Thakur tried to suppress the matter by forming a committee. Addressing the media, Olympian Phogat said on Tuesday (May 02), "It is very difficult to stand against a person who is misusing his power and position for so long. Three-four months before we sat at Jantar Mantar, we met an official, we told him everything that how women athletes are sexually harassed and mentally tortured. When no action was taken, then we sat on dharna." She further asserted, "We ended our protest after talking to Union Sports Minister (Anurag Thakur), and all the athletes had told him about the sexual harassment. By forming a committee, he tried to suppress the matter there; no action was taken at that time." Also Read: Wrestling mess: Bajrang Punia gives befitting reply to Anurag Thakur's ‘spent 12 hours with wrestlers' remark 'Will remain till Brij Bhushan goes to jail' Meanwhile, Olympic medal-winning athlete Bajrang Punia addressed the media, on Wednesday (May 03), after Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha met the wrestling group at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. He revealed that the wrestlers will continue their protest till Brij Bhushan isn't behind bars. Speaking to the media, he said, "PT Usha met us and assured her support. She said she is first an athlete and then an administrator. She assured us she will help us in getting justice. We will remain here till Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh goes to jail." The likes of Bajrang, Sakshi Malik, Vinesh, etc., have led the protest, held in the national capital after as many as seven female wrestlers -- grabbed eyeballs and become a huge talking point nationwide. Nonetheless, WFI chief Brij Bhushan has denied all claims. He recently stated, "Resignation is no big deal, but I won't do it as a criminal".

'He tried to suppress the matter': Vinesh Phogat slams Anurag Thakur amid wrestlers' protest against WFI chief

<p>Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief&nbsp;Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh released a video Thursday amid sexual harassment accusations saying&nbsp;instead of living such a life, he would wish that death takes him in its embrace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes as Supreme Court is all set to hear the petition moved by India's decorated women wrestlers, seeking registration of FIR against the wrestling body chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country's top wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia, have&nbsp;levelled accusations against Brij Bhushan Singh of sexually harassing athletes, a charge that the body chief refutes.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudanese-army-rsf-agree-to-extend-truce-by-72-hours-586826">Sudanese army, RSF agree to extend truce by 72 hours</a></p>

<p>Indian wrestlers are demonstrating and seeking stringent action. Brij Bhushan said in a video, "Friends, the day I introspect on what I gained or lost, and feel that I no longer have the strength to fight; the day I feel helpless, I would wish death as I won't be living a life like that. Instead of living such a life, I would wish that death takes me in its embrace."</p>

<p>Amid this, a statement by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha drew strong rebuke by many when she said the wrestlers are tarnishing the image of the country and they should have approached the body instead of taking to the streets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-may-restrict-export-of-semiconductor-supplies-to-china-report-586820">Germany may restrict export of semiconductor supplies to China: Report</a></p>

<p>"Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has a committee to deal with complaints of sexual harassment. Instead of taking to the streets, they (the protesting wrestlers) could have come to us earlier. But they did not. This isn't good for our sports. They should have shown some discipline," Usha told local reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protesting wrestlers termed her remarks "insensitive."</p>

<p>Sakshi Malik, the first Indian female wrestler to win a medal at the Olympics, said, "Being a woman athlete, she (PT Usha) is not listening to other women athletes. We have followed her since childhood and were inspired by her. Where is the indiscipline here? We are holding a peaceful protest."</p>

<p>Vinesh Phogat, the Commonwealth Games (CWG) and World Championship medalist, and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra also supported Malik.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: This Canadian chef sold poison to suicidal youngsters</strong></p>

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<p>"As athletes, we train hard every day to represent our country on the international stage. It is deeply concerning to see our athletes finding it necessary to protest on the streets regarding the allegations of harassment in the Indian wrestling administration," Bindra tweeted.</p>

<p>"My heart goes out to all those who have been affected. We must ensure that this issue is handled properly, with the athletes' concerns heard and addressed fairly and independently. This incident highlights the crucial need for a proper safeguarding mechanism that can prevent harassment and ensure justice for those affected. We must work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all athletes to thrive in," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh reacts to the sexual harassment charges against him. <a href="https://t.co/HOdwVCWCIa">pic.twitter.com/HOdwVCWCIa</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1651461821151232002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The wrestlers have been sleeping and also training at the protest location close to the Jantar Mantar in the national capital for the past four days. On Wednesday, they staged a candlelight march against the WFI president at Jantar Mantar.&nbsp;</p>

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Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh released a video Thursday amid sexual harassment accusations saying instead of living such a life, he would wish that death takes him in its embrace.

Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh released a video Thursday amid sexual harassment accusations saying instead of living such a life, he would wish that death takes him in its embrace. This comes as Supreme Court is all set to hear the petition moved by India's decorated women wrestlers, seeking registration of FIR against the wrestling body chief. The country's top wrestlers Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and Bajrang Punia, have levelled accusations against Brij Bhushan Singh of sexually harassing athletes, a charge that the body chief refutes. Also Read | Sudanese army, RSF agree to extend truce by 72 hours Indian wrestlers are demonstrating and seeking stringent action. Brij Bhushan said in a video, "Friends, the day I introspect on what I gained or lost, and feel that I no longer have the strength to fight; the day I feel helpless, I would wish death as I won't be living a life like that. Instead of living such a life, I would wish that death takes me in its embrace." Amid this, a statement by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha drew strong rebuke by many when she said the wrestlers are tarnishing the image of the country and they should have approached the body instead of taking to the streets. Also Read | Germany may restrict export of semiconductor supplies to China: Report "Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has a committee to deal with complaints of sexual harassment. Instead of taking to the streets, they (the protesting wrestlers) could have come to us earlier. But they did not. This isn't good for our sports. They should have shown some discipline," Usha told local reporters. The protesting wrestlers termed her remarks "insensitive." Sakshi Malik, the first Indian female wrestler to win a medal at the Olympics, said, "Being a woman athlete, she (PT Usha) is not listening to other women athletes. We have followed her since childhood and were inspired by her. Where is the indiscipline here? We are holding a peaceful protest." Vinesh Phogat, the Commonwealth Games (CWG) and World Championship medalist, and Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra also supported Malik. Watch | Gravitas: This Canadian chef sold poison to suicidal youngsters × "As athletes, we train hard every day to represent our country on the international stage. It is deeply concerning to see our athletes finding it necessary to protest on the streets regarding the allegations of harassment in the Indian wrestling administration," Bindra tweeted. "My heart goes out to all those who have been affected. We must ensure that this issue is handled properly, with the athletes' concerns heard and addressed fairly and independently. This incident highlights the crucial need for a proper safeguarding mechanism that can prevent harassment and ensure justice for those affected. We must work towards creating a safe and secure environment for all athletes to thrive in," he added. VIDEO | WFI President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh reacts to the sexual harassment charges against him. pic.twitter.com/HOdwVCWCIa — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 27, 2023 × The wrestlers have been sleeping and also training at the protest location close to the Jantar Mantar in the national capital for the past four days. On Wednesday, they staged a candlelight march against the WFI president at Jantar Mantar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'I would wish death...': India's wrestling body chief releases video amid sexual harassment allegations

<p>The top wrestlers of the country have been involved in an ongoing protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. It has created a lot of eyeballs in the past few days.&nbsp;It is to be noted that as many as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment.</p>

<p>Thus, the protest has led to reactions from several athletes in the country. However, not many top Indian cricketers have given their response and their silence has not been well received by Vinesh Phogat. The World Championship medalist launched a scathing attack on the Indian cricketers and told the Indian Express, "The entire country worships cricket but not even a single cricketer has spoken up. We aren’t saying that you speak in our favour, but at least put up a neutral message and say there should be justice for whichever party."</p>

<p>She further opined, "It’s not like we don’t have big athletes in our country. There are cricketers… During the Black Lives Matter movement in the US, they showed their support. Don’t we deserve even that much?"</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wrestling-mess-my-heart-goes-out-to-all-olympic-medallist-abhinav-bindra-backs-protesting-wrestlers-586386">Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers</a></strong></p>

<p>Vinesh added, "You do come forward to congratulate us when we win something. Even the cricketers tweet when that happens. Abhi kya ho gaya? (What has happened now?) Are you so afraid of the system? Or maybe there’s something fishy going on there too? (Unke daal mein bhi kaala hai, yeh maan ke chale hum?)</p>

<p>We don’t know what they are afraid of. I understand that they may be concerned that this could affect their sponsorship and brand endorsement deals. Maybe that’s why they are afraid to associate themselves with athletes who are protesting. But it pains me."</p>

<p>Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, was one of the first cricketers to have reacted to the protests and backed the wrestlers, via a story on his Instagram account. On Friday (April 28), the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan also broke their silence, asking for justice to prevail at the earliest. However, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar, etc. are yet to respond.</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Neeraj Chopra also backed the protesting wrestlers and tweeted, "It hurts me to see our athletes on the streets demanding justice. They have worked hard to represent our great nation and make us proud. As a nation, we are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and dignity of every individual, athlete or not. What’s happening should never happen. This is a sensitive issue and must be dealt with in an impartial and transparent manner. Pertaining authorities must take quick action in order to ensure that justice is served.”</p>


The top wrestlers of the country have been involved in an ongoing protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment.

The top wrestlers of the country have been involved in an ongoing protest against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Singh over allegations of sexual harassment. It has created a lot of eyeballs in the past few days. It is to be noted that as many as seven female wrestlers, including a minor, have complained against Brij Bhushan of sexual harassment. Thus, the protest has led to reactions from several athletes in the country. However, not many top Indian cricketers have given their response and their silence has not been well received by Vinesh Phogat. The World Championship medalist launched a scathing attack on the Indian cricketers and told the Indian Express, "The entire country worships cricket but not even a single cricketer has spoken up. We aren’t saying that you speak in our favour, but at least put up a neutral message and say there should be justice for whichever party." She further opined, "It’s not like we don’t have big athletes in our country. There are cricketers… During the Black Lives Matter movement in the US, they showed their support. Don’t we deserve even that much?" Also read: Wrestling mess: 'My heart goes out to all' - Olympic medallist Abhinav Bindra backs protesting wrestlers Vinesh added, "You do come forward to congratulate us when we win something. Even the cricketers tweet when that happens. Abhi kya ho gaya? (What has happened now?) Are you so afraid of the system? Or maybe there’s something fishy going on there too? (Unke daal mein bhi kaala hai, yeh maan ke chale hum?) We don’t know what they are afraid of. I understand that they may be concerned that this could affect their sponsorship and brand endorsement deals. Maybe that’s why they are afraid to associate themselves with athletes who are protesting. But it pains me." Kapil Dev, India's 1983 World Cup-winning captain, was one of the first cricketers to have reacted to the protests and backed the wrestlers, via a story on his Instagram account. On Friday (April 28), the likes of Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan also broke their silence, asking for justice to prevail at the earliest. However, the likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar, etc. are yet to respond. Earlier on Friday, Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Neeraj Chopra also backed the protesting wrestlers and tweeted, "It hurts me to see our athletes on the streets demanding justice. They have worked hard to represent our great nation and make us proud. As a nation, we are responsible for safeguarding the integrity and dignity of every individual, athlete or not. What’s happening should never happen. This is a sensitive issue and must be dealt with in an impartial and transparent manner. Pertaining authorities must take quick action in order to ensure that justice is served.”

'None have spoken up': Vinesh Phogat launches scathing attack on Indian cricketers amid wrestlers vs WFI row

<p>Delhi Police on Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that some preliminary inquiry may be needed to be conducted before an FIR can be registered into a complaint by wrestlers alleging sexual harassment by Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.<br />
<br />
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud that some preliminary inquiry may be needed but if this court orders, then FIR can be registered. Mehta said that the authorities think that some inquiry should be there.<br />
<br />
The Chief Justice replied that the court would also not want to do something unless there is some material. The bench asked Mehta to furnish the material on Friday and pointed out that the matter involves a minor.<br />
<br />
On April 25, senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Narender Hooda mentioned the petition before the court, a plea filed by wrestlers.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-set-to-miss-2023-icc-odi-world-cup-claims-report-586195">Rishabh Pant set to miss 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, claims report</a><br />
<br />
The top court had said: "There are serious allegations of sexual harassment in the petition, which is instituted by professional international wrestlers who have represented India. The matter requires the consideration of this court in exercise of its jurisdiction under Article 32 of the Constitution. Issue notice, returnable on 28 April 2023. Liberty to serve the Standing Counsel for the NCT of Delhi."<br />
<br />
The bench, in its order, said: "The complaints which form a part of an attachment to the petition in a sealed cover shall again be resealed and placed together with the petition under Article 32 on the next date of listing, to protect the complainants."<br />
<br />
The plea filed by wrestlers said they attempted several times to convince Delhi Police to register an FIR, but they failed.<br />
<br />
The plea said women athletes, who make our nation proud, are facing sexual harassment, and instead of getting the support they deserve, they are being forced to run from pillar to post to get justice.<br />
<br />
It said the accused person in this case is an influential person and is misusing the process of law to evade justice and further manipulating the legal system and obstructing justice.<br />
<br />
The plea said, "It is crucial that the police take all complaints of sexual harassment seriously and register FIRs promptly and not create yet another obstacle by delaying the registration of FIR."<br />
<br />
"Failure to do so not only undermines the credibility of the police department but also emboldens perpetrators of sexual harassment, making it more difficult for women to come forward and report such incidents."</p>

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Delhi Police on Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that some preliminary inquiry may be needed to be conducted before an FIR can be registered into a complaint by wrestlers alleging sexual harassment by Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Delhi Police on Wednesday informed the Supreme Court that some preliminary inquiry may be needed to be conducted before an FIR can be registered into a complaint by wrestlers alleging sexual harassment by Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud that some preliminary inquiry may be needed but if this court orders, then FIR can be registered. Mehta said that the authorities think that some inquiry should be there. The Chief Justice replied that the court would also not want to do something unless there is some material. The bench asked Mehta to furnish the material on Friday and pointed out that the matter involves a minor. On April 25, senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Narender Hooda mentioned the petition before the court, a plea filed by wrestlers. Also Read: Rishabh Pant set to miss 2023 ICC ODI World Cup, claims report The top court had said: "There are serious allegations of sexual harassment in the petition, which is instituted by professional international wrestlers who have represented India. The matter requires the consideration of this court in exercise of its jurisdiction under Article 32 of the Constitution. Issue notice, returnable on 28 April 2023. Liberty to serve the Standing Counsel for the NCT of Delhi." The bench, in its order, said: "The complaints which form a part of an attachment to the petition in a sealed cover shall again be resealed and placed together with the petition under Article 32 on the next date of listing, to protect the complainants." The plea filed by wrestlers said they attempted several times to convince Delhi Police to register an FIR, but they failed. The plea said women athletes, who make our nation proud, are facing sexual harassment, and instead of getting the support they deserve, they are being forced to run from pillar to post to get justice. It said the accused person in this case is an influential person and is misusing the process of law to evade justice and further manipulating the legal system and obstructing justice. The plea said, "It is crucial that the police take all complaints of sexual harassment seriously and register FIRs promptly and not create yet another obstacle by delaying the registration of FIR." "Failure to do so not only undermines the credibility of the police department but also emboldens perpetrators of sexual harassment, making it more difficult for women to come forward and report such incidents." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Preliminary probe required before FIR can be filed: Delhi Police to India's top court on wrestlers' plea

<p>Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Tuesday alleged that some of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) officials are threatening female wrestlers and forcing them to withdraw their complaints of sexual harassment against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.<br />
<br />
She said that attempts were being made to break the unity of the seven women wrestlers. "Their (complainants`) family members are getting threats now. Their lives are in danger. Police must register the FIR and help the innocent people," Vinesh told IANS. "If something happens to these complainants, Delhi Police and the government will be responsible for it."<br />
<br />
On Sunday, top wrestlers from the country, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh, and Sakshi Malik, returned to the protest site at Jantar Mantar and demanded that an FIR be lodged against the WFI chief. They are also demanding that the government should make public the findings of the report submitted by the Oversight Committee, which investigated allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan.<br />
<br />
Vinesh expressed her disappointment over the Sports Ministry`s failure to take action against Brij Bhushan despite their protest three months ago. "How long is it going to take for the government to act on the report submitted by the committee? We are still waiting to hear from them," the World Championship medallist emphasised.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/supreme-court-issues-notice-on-wrestlers-plea-seeking-fir-vs-wfi-chief-586020">Supreme Court issues notice on wrestlers' plea seeking FIR vs WFI chief</a></strong></p>

<p>"We will, this time, sit here till our demands are met and Brij Bhushan Singh is arrested. We are not going to stop. We are getting support from everywhere. And we want to thank all those that are present here and urge people to come and support us for the better future of athletes in India. This is a fight of all the women athletes and they must come forward and share their views."<br />
<br />
The government had formed a six-member panel on January 23 to investigate into the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation levelled against the WFI chief. The panel submitted its report on April 5 but the government has not made public its findings, saying it is still under examination.</p>


Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Tuesday alleged that some of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) officials are threatening female wrestlers and forcing them to withdraw their complaints of sexual harassment against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Tuesday alleged that some of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) officials are threatening female wrestlers and forcing them to withdraw their complaints of sexual harassment against WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. She said that attempts were being made to break the unity of the seven women wrestlers. "Their (complainants`) family members are getting threats now. Their lives are in danger. Police must register the FIR and help the innocent people," Vinesh told IANS. "If something happens to these complainants, Delhi Police and the government will be responsible for it." On Sunday, top wrestlers from the country, including Bajrang Punia, Vinesh, and Sakshi Malik, returned to the protest site at Jantar Mantar and demanded that an FIR be lodged against the WFI chief. They are also demanding that the government should make public the findings of the report submitted by the Oversight Committee, which investigated allegations of sexual harassment against Brij Bhushan. Vinesh expressed her disappointment over the Sports Ministry`s failure to take action against Brij Bhushan despite their protest three months ago. "How long is it going to take for the government to act on the report submitted by the committee? We are still waiting to hear from them," the World Championship medallist emphasised. Also Read: Supreme Court issues notice on wrestlers' plea seeking FIR vs WFI chief "We will, this time, sit here till our demands are met and Brij Bhushan Singh is arrested. We are not going to stop. We are getting support from everywhere. And we want to thank all those that are present here and urge people to come and support us for the better future of athletes in India. This is a fight of all the women athletes and they must come forward and share their views." The government had formed a six-member panel on January 23 to investigate into the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation levelled against the WFI chief. The panel submitted its report on April 5 but the government has not made public its findings, saying it is still under examination.

Seven women grapplers and their families are getting threats from WFI officials, alleges Vinesh Phogat

<p>The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a notice on a plea by the country`s seven top wrestlers seeking a direction for the registration of an FIR against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.<br />
<br />
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud and comprising Justice P.S. Narasimha, said: "There are serious allegation in plea on behest of international wrestlers with regards to sexual harassment meted out to them. Issue notice returnable on Friday. Liberty to serve standing counsel NCT Delhi. The complaints which form an attachment in sealed cover and shall be again resealeda.".<br />
<br />
The plea was mentioned before the bench by senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Narendra Hooda, representing the wrestlers.<br />
<br />
Sibal submitted that this is the wrestlers` matter and they are sitting in dharna, and seven women have complained and one is a minor. He stressed that an FIR has not been registered and added that the plea seeks one against Singh over alleged sexual harassment by women wrestlers.</p>

<p>During the hearing, Sibal argued that there is a committee report which has not been made public. The Chief Justice asked Sibal to show the case papers. Sibal said please see the complaint by the minor, the young girl had won a gold medal and added even the police personnel can be prosecuted for not registering an FIR.<br />
<br />
He emphasized that the court should look at the allegations and the police are not acting. After hearing submissions, the top court sought response from the Delhi Police.<br />
<br />
According to the plea, the wrestlers have cited an inordinate delay in registration of FIR by the Delhi Police against the WFI Presdent and urged the apex court to issue a direction to police to lodge a case.&nbsp;The top court agreed with the petitioners to suppress their identity mentioned in the petition.</p>


The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a notice on a plea by the country`s seven top wrestlers seeking a direction for the registration of an FIR against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued a notice on a plea by the country`s seven top wrestlers seeking a direction for the registration of an FIR against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud and comprising Justice P.S. Narasimha, said: "There are serious allegation in plea on behest of international wrestlers with regards to sexual harassment meted out to them. Issue notice returnable on Friday. Liberty to serve standing counsel NCT Delhi. The complaints which form an attachment in sealed cover and shall be again resealeda.". The plea was mentioned before the bench by senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Narendra Hooda, representing the wrestlers. Sibal submitted that this is the wrestlers` matter and they are sitting in dharna, and seven women have complained and one is a minor. He stressed that an FIR has not been registered and added that the plea seeks one against Singh over alleged sexual harassment by women wrestlers. During the hearing, Sibal argued that there is a committee report which has not been made public. The Chief Justice asked Sibal to show the case papers. Sibal said please see the complaint by the minor, the young girl had won a gold medal and added even the police personnel can be prosecuted for not registering an FIR. He emphasized that the court should look at the allegations and the police are not acting. After hearing submissions, the top court sought response from the Delhi Police. According to the plea, the wrestlers have cited an inordinate delay in registration of FIR by the Delhi Police against the WFI Presdent and urged the apex court to issue a direction to police to lodge a case. The top court agreed with the petitioners to suppress their identity mentioned in the petition.

Supreme Court issues notice on wrestlers' plea seeking FIR vs WFI chief

<p>Sami Zayn's name has been doing the rounds ahead of WrestleMania 39. Before his bout, former WCW wrestler Disco Inferno feels he should not join forces with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 39. The 38-year-old Zayn unsuccessfully challenged Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Elimination Chamber on February 18. Going forward, it&nbsp; is being speculated that Owens and Zayn could face the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship in early April.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before that, Disco Inferno opined, on&nbsp;<em>K100,&nbsp;</em>that he would be pleased to see Zayn team up with his ally Jey Uso against Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa and not join forces with Owens. In this regard, he stated, "I honestly think that the storyline is better if it's Jey and Sami against Solo and Jimmy. Keep it all in family. It's a family squabble. The outsider guy [Zayn], the brother's a friend, this is stuff like real life. You have two brothers. One of the brothers is jealous that he's hanging out more with the friend. They turn on the friend because the older brother, Roman, didn't like him, so he scr*wed the older brother for bullying him."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwe-teddy-long-ready-to-return-but-on-this-own-terms-showers-praises-on-sami-zayn-565121">WWE: Teddy Long ready to return but on this own terms, showers praises on Sami Zayn</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>How about Kevin Owens joining forces with Sami Zayn?</strong></p>

<p>Disco Inferno opined, "I know Kevin Owens, that's the way, but he's still on the outskirts of the storyline in my opinion. I think that inner squabble with these guys is still the story. They're not gonna do it my way, but that's the match I would have."&nbsp;</p>

<p>A lot has been said and written about Zayn ahead of WrestleMania 39. Teddy Long -- widely claimed as the longest-serving on-screen manager on the Blue Brand – SmackDown from 2004 to 2012 -- also joined the bandwagon and praised Zayn. "He's the guy, man. He's moving fast and doing a great job. His promos are on the money. His wrestling ability, his selling in the ring, everything is just coming together for Sami Zayn," said Long&nbsp;during an exclusive interaction with SportsKeeda Wrestling's&nbsp;<em>The Wrestling Time Machine</em>&nbsp;podcast.</p>


Sami Zayn's name has been doing the rounds ahead of WrestleMania 39. Before his bout, former WCW wrestler Disco Inferno feels he should not join forces with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 39.

Sami Zayn's name has been doing the rounds ahead of WrestleMania 39. Before his bout, former WCW wrestler Disco Inferno feels he should not join forces with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 39. The 38-year-old Zayn unsuccessfully challenged Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Elimination Chamber on February 18. Going forward, it is being speculated that Owens and Zayn could face the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship in early April. Before that, Disco Inferno opined, on K100, that he would be pleased to see Zayn team up with his ally Jey Uso against Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa and not join forces with Owens. In this regard, he stated, "I honestly think that the storyline is better if it's Jey and Sami against Solo and Jimmy. Keep it all in family. It's a family squabble. The outsider guy [Zayn], the brother's a friend, this is stuff like real life. You have two brothers. One of the brothers is jealous that he's hanging out more with the friend. They turn on the friend because the older brother, Roman, didn't like him, so he scr*wed the older brother for bullying him." Also Read: WWE: Teddy Long ready to return but on this own terms, showers praises on Sami Zayn How about Kevin Owens joining forces with Sami Zayn? Disco Inferno opined, "I know Kevin Owens, that's the way, but he's still on the outskirts of the storyline in my opinion. I think that inner squabble with these guys is still the story. They're not gonna do it my way, but that's the match I would have." A lot has been said and written about Zayn ahead of WrestleMania 39. Teddy Long -- widely claimed as the longest-serving on-screen manager on the Blue Brand – SmackDown from 2004 to 2012 -- also joined the bandwagon and praised Zayn. "He's the guy, man. He's moving fast and doing a great job. His promos are on the money. His wrestling ability, his selling in the ring, everything is just coming together for Sami Zayn," said Long during an exclusive interaction with SportsKeeda Wrestling's The Wrestling Time Machine podcast.

WWE: Sami Zayn should not join forces with Kevin Owens at WrestleMania 39, feels wrestling veteran

<p>Keiji Muto, also known as The Great Muta, recently played his retirement match where he took on top NJPQ Superstar Tetsuya Naito. While Muto went down in his final appearance, after Naito nailed him with his Destino finisher, the Japanese veteran bowed out on a high due to his memorable run. After his retirement match, the multi-time world champion received praise from all corners. William Regal, the famed former wrestler, also joined the bandwagon and reacted after Muta's final match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Regal took to his official Twitter account to thank Muto for his contributions to the business. Regal, widely known as The Gentleman Villain, also shared a photo of a time Muta and he wrestled together at an event, in Japan. Here's what he wrote, "Thank you my old friend and foe."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">. ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/muto_keiji?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@muto_keiji</a>⁩ Thank you my old friend and foe. <a href="https://t.co/KzngJZQCzl">pic.twitter.com/KzngJZQCzl</a></p>
— William Regal (@RealKingRegal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealKingRegal/status/1628081273657864196?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwe-jey-uso-sends-out-a-message-to-roman-reigns-following-confrontation-with-him-at-elimination-chamber-564771">WWE: Jey Uso sends out a message to Roman Reigns following confrontation with him at Elimination Chamber</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that The Gentleman Villain stormed his way back to work for WWE after having an eventful run with AEW. Regal reportedly urged the AEW President Tony Khan for his release as he was willing to return to the WWE. Khan gave him the green signal as Regal made a return to the WWE at the end of 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being granted the permission, Regal lauded Khan and stated that he had a "lovely time" with All Elite Wrestling.</p>

<p>Talking about The Great Muta, he spoke to the press and revealed he came into the bout with an injury which pushed him on the back foot -- more than the age factor. "It’s been 39 years this year, and there have been tough times along the way. After all, I’ve been constantly injured, and this time, for the past month, I was really bothered by a separated hamstring. Fortunately, that’s all I had to do today. I worked really hard on the treatment and rehabilitation. I’m glad I was able to move more than I thought I could. Well, everyone has to deal with injuries. I’m really glad I was able to finish. Many wrestlers don’t get to have retirement matches like this, but I was really happy in my wrestling career," he said.</p>

<p>On whether he has regrets in his career, Muta said, "I have a lot of regrets (I’ve had throughout my career). I’m reflecting on what I could have done a little more, and I’m going down this road. Even though there is no next time. Maybe I don’t really feel like I’m retiring yet (laughs). There are so many little things that I should have done differently."</p>


Keiji Muto, also known as The Great Muta, recently played his retirement match where he took on top NJPQ Superstar Tetsuya Naito. While Muto went down in his final appearance, after Naito nailed him with his Destino finisher, the Japanese veteran bowed out on a high due to his memorable run.

Keiji Muto, also known as The Great Muta, recently played his retirement match where he took on top NJPQ Superstar Tetsuya Naito. While Muto went down in his final appearance, after Naito nailed him with his Destino finisher, the Japanese veteran bowed out on a high due to his memorable run. After his retirement match, the multi-time world champion received praise from all corners. William Regal, the famed former wrestler, also joined the bandwagon and reacted after Muta's final match. Regal took to his official Twitter account to thank Muto for his contributions to the business. Regal, widely known as The Gentleman Villain, also shared a photo of a time Muta and he wrestled together at an event, in Japan. Here's what he wrote, "Thank you my old friend and foe." . ⁦@muto_keiji⁩ Thank you my old friend and foe. pic.twitter.com/KzngJZQCzl — William Regal (@RealKingRegal) February 21, 2023 × Also Read: WWE: Jey Uso sends out a message to Roman Reigns following confrontation with him at Elimination Chamber It is to be noted that The Gentleman Villain stormed his way back to work for WWE after having an eventful run with AEW. Regal reportedly urged the AEW President Tony Khan for his release as he was willing to return to the WWE. Khan gave him the green signal as Regal made a return to the WWE at the end of 2022. After being granted the permission, Regal lauded Khan and stated that he had a "lovely time" with All Elite Wrestling. Talking about The Great Muta, he spoke to the press and revealed he came into the bout with an injury which pushed him on the back foot -- more than the age factor. "It’s been 39 years this year, and there have been tough times along the way. After all, I’ve been constantly injured, and this time, for the past month, I was really bothered by a separated hamstring. Fortunately, that’s all I had to do today. I worked really hard on the treatment and rehabilitation. I’m glad I was able to move more than I thought I could. Well, everyone has to deal with injuries. I’m really glad I was able to finish. Many wrestlers don’t get to have retirement matches like this, but I was really happy in my wrestling career," he said. On whether he has regrets in his career, Muta said, "I have a lot of regrets (I’ve had throughout my career). I’m reflecting on what I could have done a little more, and I’m going down this road. Even though there is no next time. Maybe I don’t really feel like I’m retiring yet (laughs). There are so many little things that I should have done differently."

'Thank you my....' - William Regal reacts following wrestling legend Keiji Muto's retirement match

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidI5s2fApO0spK" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Three years after signing with the WWE, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's daughter Simone Johnson or Ava Raine as she is known around in wrestling circles has been rechristened once again. According to WWE's official website, the NXT superstar does not have a last name anymore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fans are speculating that from hereon, the Schism member will only fight under the moniker Ava.&nbsp;The development comes in the backdrop of Raine's recent kidnapping exploits.</p>

<p>Simone debuted in 2020 under the name Ava Raine, but it appears that the executives have decided to separate her identity completely from her superstar father who has been a WWE crowd-puller for the major part of the last two decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wwe-superstar-seth-rollins-shares-this-endearing-moment-with-a-little-fan-562741" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | WWE superstar Seth Rollins shares THIS endearing moment with a little fan&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite being The rock's oldest daughter, she is yet to wrestle in her first WWE match. However, she does have an intriguing storyline and character development already. Ava is currently part of a storyline with Thea hail. During one of the recent editions, Ava could be seen kidnapping and choking Hail.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Meanwhile, The Rock has heaped praises on&nbsp;his daughter for following the family lineage of wrestling. After Raine's debut, The Rock in an interview with Jimmy Kimmel discussed about her debut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"She made her debut in WWE, their smaller federation, NXT. She did so good," he said before adding, She went out there on the microphone. You have to be poised when you go out there. She has a cool wrestling name, Ava Raine.”</p>

<p>Reflecting on her name, The Rock said it could mean a lot of different things.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It’s probably a mix of what she wanted to do, what she wanted to be called. Ultimately, what the powers that be want her to be called as well. She’s the first fourth generation of pro wrestler in WWE. I always like to say that Ava Raine could mean a lot of things, but in my mind, it means she’s going to lay the smackdown on candy a**es.”</p>

<p>The WWE universe is certainly looking at Ava as a future star. If she continues the hard work, she may very well headline the women's division in NXT.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Three years after signing with the WWE, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's daughter Simone Johnson or Ava Raine as she is known around in wrestling circles has been rechristened once again.

Three years after signing with the WWE, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's daughter Simone Johnson or Ava Raine as she is known around in wrestling circles has been rechristened once again. According to WWE's official website, the NXT superstar does not have a last name anymore. The fans are speculating that from hereon, the Schism member will only fight under the moniker Ava. The development comes in the backdrop of Raine's recent kidnapping exploits. Simone debuted in 2020 under the name Ava Raine, but it appears that the executives have decided to separate her identity completely from her superstar father who has been a WWE crowd-puller for the major part of the last two decades. WATCH | WWE superstar Seth Rollins shares THIS endearing moment with a little fan Despite being The rock's oldest daughter, she is yet to wrestle in her first WWE match. However, she does have an intriguing storyline and character development already. Ava is currently part of a storyline with Thea hail. During one of the recent editions, Ava could be seen kidnapping and choking Hail. View this post on Instagram A post shared by A V A (@avarainewwe) × Meanwhile, The Rock has heaped praises on his daughter for following the family lineage of wrestling. After Raine's debut, The Rock in an interview with Jimmy Kimmel discussed about her debut. "She made her debut in WWE, their smaller federation, NXT. She did so good," he said before adding, She went out there on the microphone. You have to be poised when you go out there. She has a cool wrestling name, Ava Raine.” Reflecting on her name, The Rock said it could mean a lot of different things. "It’s probably a mix of what she wanted to do, what she wanted to be called. Ultimately, what the powers that be want her to be called as well. She’s the first fourth generation of pro wrestler in WWE. I always like to say that Ava Raine could mean a lot of things, but in my mind, it means she’s going to lay the smackdown on candy a**es.” The WWE universe is certainly looking at Ava as a future star. If she continues the hard work, she may very well headline the women's division in NXT. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

What is Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's daughter Ava Raine's new WWE name? Find out

<p>On Wednesday (February 15), wrestling legend Jerry Jarrett passed away at the age of 80. The veteran is regarded as one of the greatest minds in wrestling and his impact on the business remains staggering, to say the least. He was hailed by many as a mega genius in wrestling business and was responsible for developing many great talents and played a huge role in producing one of the Wrestling television shows and the Memphis Territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dutch Mantell, retired professional wrestler, shared the news of the passing away of Jerry with a post on his official Twitter handle. He captioned the post:</p>

<p>"SAD NEWS: I’m hearing reports of my friend and long time booker/promoter Jerry Jarrett died this morning in TN. I last saw him last year when we did the VICE show THE TERRITORIES in Atlanta. Very creative booker. Condolences to Jeff/Deborah and the Jarrett family," tweeted Dutch Mantell.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">RIP Jerry Jarrett…a man who brought me in from Puerto Rico and kinda shaped my career. Rode a million miles with him picking his brain. Actually, Memphis with Jerry was eons ahead of the other territories in presentation and story. Taught me tons about booking. <a href="https://twitter.com/WSI_YouTube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WSI_YouTube</a> <a href="https://t.co/XTFyzAbP2L">pic.twitter.com/XTFyzAbP2L</a></p>
— 𝔻𝕣. 𝔻𝕦𝕥𝕔𝕙 (@DirtyDMantell) <a href="https://twitter.com/DirtyDMantell/status/1625636189578358785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-shocking-win-at-delray-beach-open-matija-pecotic-asked-for-another-day-off-from-full-time-job-562535">After shocking win at Delray Beach Open, Matija Pecotic asked for 'another day off' from full-time job</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>All you need to know about the wrestling legend Jerry Jarrett</strong></p>

<p>-- It is to be noted that Jerry's legendary career as a promoter in professional wrestling spanned decades.</p>

<p>-- He cofounded NWA TNA -- known as Impact Wrestling in current times -- along with his son, Jeff Jarrett, in 2002.</p>

<p>-- The legendary promoter became a part of the NWA Hall of Fame in 2009.</p>

<p>--&nbsp;Jarrett wrestled primarily for NWA Mid-America and ended up winning multiple Tag Team Championships before calling it quits to shift his focus on booking and promoting.</p>

<p>The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) also paid rich tribute to Jarrett after his passing away. It tweeted, "The NWA family is saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary Jerry Jarrett. A very important part of the professional wrestling business, we send our condolences to his family, friends and fans."</p>

<p><strong>WWE also remembers Jerry Jarrett</strong></p>

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— WWE (@WWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1625662104609951747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jarrett certainly created a huge impact in wrestling and his contributions played a big role in the promotion of the game to all parts of the world. He will be remembered by all for a long time for his lasting influence.</p>


On Wednesday (February 15), wrestling legend Jerry Jarrett passed away at the age of 80. The veteran is regarded as one of the greatest minds in wrestling and his impact on the business remains staggering, to say the least.

On Wednesday (February 15), wrestling legend Jerry Jarrett passed away at the age of 80. The veteran is regarded as one of the greatest minds in wrestling and his impact on the business remains staggering, to say the least. He was hailed by many as a mega genius in wrestling business and was responsible for developing many great talents and played a huge role in producing one of the Wrestling television shows and the Memphis Territory. Dutch Mantell, retired professional wrestler, shared the news of the passing away of Jerry with a post on his official Twitter handle. He captioned the post: "SAD NEWS: I’m hearing reports of my friend and long time booker/promoter Jerry Jarrett died this morning in TN. I last saw him last year when we did the VICE show THE TERRITORIES in Atlanta. Very creative booker. Condolences to Jeff/Deborah and the Jarrett family," tweeted Dutch Mantell. RIP Jerry Jarrett…a man who brought me in from Puerto Rico and kinda shaped my career. Rode a million miles with him picking his brain. Actually, Memphis with Jerry was eons ahead of the other territories in presentation and story. Taught me tons about booking. @WSI_YouTube pic.twitter.com/XTFyzAbP2L — 𝔻𝕣. 𝔻𝕦𝕥𝕔𝕙 (@DirtyDMantell) February 14, 2023 × Also Read: After shocking win at Delray Beach Open, Matija Pecotic asked for 'another day off' from full-time job All you need to know about the wrestling legend Jerry Jarrett -- It is to be noted that Jerry's legendary career as a promoter in professional wrestling spanned decades. -- He cofounded NWA TNA -- known as Impact Wrestling in current times -- along with his son, Jeff Jarrett, in 2002. -- The legendary promoter became a part of the NWA Hall of Fame in 2009. -- Jarrett wrestled primarily for NWA Mid-America and ended up winning multiple Tag Team Championships before calling it quits to shift his focus on booking and promoting. The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) also paid rich tribute to Jarrett after his passing away. It tweeted, "The NWA family is saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary Jerry Jarrett. A very important part of the professional wrestling business, we send our condolences to his family, friends and fans." WWE also remembers Jerry Jarrett In memory of Jerry Jarrett#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/KTIslLjSfD — WWE (@WWE) February 15, 2023 × Jarrett certainly created a huge impact in wrestling and his contributions played a big role in the promotion of the game to all parts of the world. He will be remembered by all for a long time for his lasting influence.

Jerry Jarrett passes away at 80: All you need to know about the Wrestling legend

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formed a panel to probe sexual harassment charges against Wrestling Federation of India Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. The decision was taken during IOA's emergency executive council meeting on Friday which was attended by Abhinav Bindra, PT Usha and Kalyan Chaubey.

Indian Wrestling Scandal: Wrestling Chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh accused of sexual harassment

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<p>Not overly impressed by the assurances of the government, Indian wrestlers sitting on a silent protest at Jantar Mantar in the Indian capital New Delhi for two consecutive days have issued an ultimatum. The wrestlers said they will lodge multiple FIRs against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh if the federation is not disbanded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The wrestlers met Sports Secretary Sujata Chaturvedi, Director General Sports Authority of India (SAI) Sandip Pradhan, and Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal.&nbsp;During the hour-long meeting, they were asked to end the protest and assured that their grievances will be addressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, since the wrestlers have been&nbsp;demanding a concrete solution to the problem, they were not satisfied with the response.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Consequently, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur agreed to meet the wrestlers at his official residence in Delhi at 10 PM IST (1630 GMT) for talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-wrestlers-open-can-of-worms-into-the-working-of-federation-allege-sexual-harassment-and-corruption-553870" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms', allege sexual harassment, corruption in wrestling federation</strong></a></p>

<p>Without disclosing the minutes of the meeting, Vinesh Phogat said, "It's not just about his (Brij Bhushan) resignation. We will send him to jail. We did not want to take the legal route, because we had hoped for a resolution but if a proper solution is not provided, we will lodge FIRs against the president."</p>

<p>"At least 5-6 girls will lodge FIRs tomorrow and it will be a black day if it happens in a country like India where 'Durga' and 'Lakshmi' are worshipped. Then I would say that no woman is safe in this country and no daughter should be born to anyone."</p>

<p>Sakshi Malik, an Olympic medalist said the government needed to take over WFI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We want the government to take control of WFI and we will not compete in any competition under the current president."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-that-has-happened-so-far-in-the-protest-by-the-indian-wrestlers-against-the-top-wrestling-body-554200"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;All that has happened so far in the protest by the Indian wrestlers against the top wrestling body</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier in the day, Babita Phogat, a former Olympian, and a BJP member arrived at the protest site and attempted to mediate between the players and the sports ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I'm a wrestler first. The BJP government is with the wrestlers. I have heard instances of abuse in my career as well. There is no smoke without fire," said Phogat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I have assured them that the government is with them. I will try that their issues are resolved today."</p>

<p>The wrestlers have accused the federation president&nbsp;of sexual harassment and exploiting up-and-coming players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SAI&nbsp;has issued an official statement demanding an explanation from the WFI on all charges within the next 72 hours.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sports-ministry-gives-72-hours-to-wrestling-body-to-explain-allegations-of-sexual-harassment-554057" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Sports ministry gives 72 hours to wrestling body for explanation on sexual harassment allegations</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Not overly impressed by the assurances of the government, Indian wrestlers sitting on a silent protest at Jantar Mantar in the Indian capital New Delhi for two consecutive days have issued an ultimatum.

Not overly impressed by the assurances of the government, Indian wrestlers sitting on a silent protest at Jantar Mantar in the Indian capital New Delhi for two consecutive days have issued an ultimatum. The wrestlers said they will lodge multiple FIRs against Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh if the federation is not disbanded. The wrestlers met Sports Secretary Sujata Chaturvedi, Director General Sports Authority of India (SAI) Sandip Pradhan, and Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal. During the hour-long meeting, they were asked to end the protest and assured that their grievances will be addressed. However, since the wrestlers have been demanding a concrete solution to the problem, they were not satisfied with the response. Consequently, Sports Minister Anurag Thakur agreed to meet the wrestlers at his official residence in Delhi at 10 PM IST (1630 GMT) for talks. Read more: Indian wrestlers open 'can of worms', allege sexual harassment, corruption in wrestling federation Without disclosing the minutes of the meeting, Vinesh Phogat said, "It's not just about his (Brij Bhushan) resignation. We will send him to jail. We did not want to take the legal route, because we had hoped for a resolution but if a proper solution is not provided, we will lodge FIRs against the president." "At least 5-6 girls will lodge FIRs tomorrow and it will be a black day if it happens in a country like India where 'Durga' and 'Lakshmi' are worshipped. Then I would say that no woman is safe in this country and no daughter should be born to anyone." Sakshi Malik, an Olympic medalist said the government needed to take over WFI. "We want the government to take control of WFI and we will not compete in any competition under the current president." Read more: All that has happened so far in the protest by the Indian wrestlers against the top wrestling body Earlier in the day, Babita Phogat, a former Olympian, and a BJP member arrived at the protest site and attempted to mediate between the players and the sports ministry. "I'm a wrestler first. The BJP government is with the wrestlers. I have heard instances of abuse in my career as well. There is no smoke without fire," said Phogat. “I have assured them that the government is with them. I will try that their issues are resolved today." The wrestlers have accused the federation president of sexual harassment and exploiting up-and-coming players. SAI has issued an official statement demanding an explanation from the WFI on all charges within the next 72 hours. Read more: Sports ministry gives 72 hours to wrestling body for explanation on sexual harassment allegations (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wrestlers ready to lodge FIR against WFI president as govt assurances fail to satisfy

<p>WWE, the world's largest pro-wrestling company, has reportedly been bought by Saudi Arabia's&nbsp;Public Investment Fund.&nbsp;As per DAZN's Steven Muehlhausen, WWE "will go back to being private" for the first time since October 1999.&nbsp;This development comes hours after Stephanie McMahon stepped down as Chairwoman &amp; Co-CEO, less than a week after her father, Vince McMahon, came out of retirement and took over as the chairman of the board.</p>

<p>Ever since McMahon returned from his retirement, talks were on for a potential WWE sale. Soon after he took over, McMahon made his intentions known when he&nbsp;announced that the company was gearing up to undertake "strategic alternatives" with an aim "to maximise value for all WWE shareholders." His statement made heads turn and many felt WWE's sale was around the corner.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that an official announcement has not been made. WWE is yet to confirm or deny DAZN's report of its sale to&nbsp;Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-2023-opening-ceremony-live-streaming-how-to-watch-opening-ceremony-live-stream-for-free-in-india-551517"><strong>Hockey World cup 2023 Opening Ceremony LIVE Streaming: watch Opening Ceremony Live streaming for free in India</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Stephanie McMahon resigns making Nick Khan the sole CEO</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Then. Now. Forever. Together. <a href="https://t.co/8dqr5reIiv">pic.twitter.com/8dqr5reIiv</a></p>
— Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) <a href="https://twitter.com/StephMcMahon/status/1612956533695938560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"With Nick's leadership and Paul 'Triple H' Levesque as a chief content officer, I am confident WWE is in the perfect place to continue to provide unparalleled creative content and drive maximum value for shareholders," McMahon wrote in a statement released on Twitter. The statement added, "WWE is in such a strong position that I have decided to return to my leave and take it one step further with my official resignation. I look forward to cheering on WWE from the other side of the business, where I started when I was a little kid, as a pure fan."<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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WWE, the world's largest pro-wrestling company, has reportedly been bought by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. As per DAZN's Steven Muehlhausen, WWE "will go back to being private" for the first time since October 1999.

WWE, the world's largest pro-wrestling company, has reportedly been bought by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. As per DAZN's Steven Muehlhausen, WWE "will go back to being private" for the first time since October 1999. This development comes hours after Stephanie McMahon stepped down as Chairwoman & Co-CEO, less than a week after her father, Vince McMahon, came out of retirement and took over as the chairman of the board. Ever since McMahon returned from his retirement, talks were on for a potential WWE sale. Soon after he took over, McMahon made his intentions known when he announced that the company was gearing up to undertake "strategic alternatives" with an aim "to maximise value for all WWE shareholders." His statement made heads turn and many felt WWE's sale was around the corner. It is to be noted that an official announcement has not been made. WWE is yet to confirm or deny DAZN's report of its sale to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. Also read: Hockey World cup 2023 Opening Ceremony LIVE Streaming: watch Opening Ceremony Live streaming for free in India Stephanie McMahon resigns making Nick Khan the sole CEO Then. Now. Forever. Together. pic.twitter.com/8dqr5reIiv — Stephanie McMahon (@StephMcMahon) January 10, 2023 × "With Nick's leadership and Paul 'Triple H' Levesque as a chief content officer, I am confident WWE is in the perfect place to continue to provide unparalleled creative content and drive maximum value for shareholders," McMahon wrote in a statement released on Twitter. The statement added, "WWE is in such a strong position that I have decided to return to my leave and take it one step further with my official resignation. I look forward to cheering on WWE from the other side of the business, where I started when I was a little kid, as a pure fan." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WWE, world’s largest pro-wrestling company, SOLD to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund - Report

<p>The WWE Hall of Famer Barry Windham is in the ICU after suffering a massive heart attack on December 02 (Friday). Windham, a&nbsp;wrestling legend and&nbsp;uncle of Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas, remains one of the most popular figures in the WWE circuit and made a big name for himself by being involved in plenty of great matches in the 1980s and early 1990s.</p>

<p>Ever since the news spread like wildfire, Windham's ardent fans have taken to their social media platforms to pray for his speedy recovery. However, his situation isn't very encouraging as confirmed by his niece, who revealed that the family has set up a GoFundMe campaign in a bid to cover the 63-year-old Windham's medical expenses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Here's Barry Windham's niece's heartfelt note for his avid fans worldwide:</em></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwe-discuss-possibility-of-the-rock-winning-2023-royal-rumble-challenging-roman-reigns-at-wrestlemania-540126">WWE discuss possibility of The Rock winning 2023 Royal Rumble, challenging Roman Reigns at WrestleMania</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>'His<em>&nbsp;</em>darkest fear became a horrific reality as he went into cardiac arrest'</strong></p>

<p><em>With deep sadness I regret to inform that my uncle, WWE Hall of Famer, Barry Windham suffered a massive heart attack Friday evening. While traveling through the Atlanta airport, his darkest fear became a horrific reality as he went into cardiac arrest. He is currently in the ICU and has undergone an emergency procedure to save his life. As a family, we are impatiently waiting to hear that he will be okay. But as of now, the future is uncertain.</em></p>

<p><em>As is the future for many in his position. And for those who have formerly devoted their lives to their craft. Barry Windham, has an iconically, decorated resume as an American professional wrestler. He traveled all over the world for decades, entertaining people of all ages with his athleticism and undeniable charisma.</em></p>

<p><em>After those countless years of wrestling matches, traveling and entertaining world wide, he experienced a number of taxing injuries and ended up undergoing multiple surgeries. That led to other health complications. Barry hung his boots for the last time in the early 2000’s. Since then he has been limited with work due to his medical history as well as left without health insurance.</em></p>

<p><em>To face these times is one of great stress and hardship. As well as one that comes with extensive medical expenses he is taking on. That is overwhelming to say the least.&nbsp;We are politely asking for any increment of financial assistance to help cover his medical expenses and bills and see him through this time.</em></p>

<p>Windham, who became a part of WWE's Hall of Fame in 2012,&nbsp;became a household name with much of his success coming through WCW and the NWA. In 1993, he was NWA World Heavyweight Champion after defeating The Great Muta. In addition, he&nbsp;had three separate WWE runs in his illustrious and lengthy career.&nbsp;</p>


The WWE Hall of Famer Barry Windham is in the ICU after suffering a massive heart attack on December 02 (Friday). Windham, a wrestling legend and uncle of Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas, remains one of the most popular figures in the WWE circuit and made a big name for himself by being involved in plenty of great matches in the 1980s and early 1990s.

The WWE Hall of Famer Barry Windham is in the ICU after suffering a massive heart attack on December 02 (Friday). Windham, a wrestling legend and uncle of Bray Wyatt and Bo Dallas, remains one of the most popular figures in the WWE circuit and made a big name for himself by being involved in plenty of great matches in the 1980s and early 1990s. Ever since the news spread like wildfire, Windham's ardent fans have taken to their social media platforms to pray for his speedy recovery. However, his situation isn't very encouraging as confirmed by his niece, who revealed that the family has set up a GoFundMe campaign in a bid to cover the 63-year-old Windham's medical expenses. Here's Barry Windham's niece's heartfelt note for his avid fans worldwide: Also read: WWE discuss possibility of The Rock winning 2023 Royal Rumble, challenging Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 'His darkest fear became a horrific reality as he went into cardiac arrest' With deep sadness I regret to inform that my uncle, WWE Hall of Famer, Barry Windham suffered a massive heart attack Friday evening. While traveling through the Atlanta airport, his darkest fear became a horrific reality as he went into cardiac arrest. He is currently in the ICU and has undergone an emergency procedure to save his life. As a family, we are impatiently waiting to hear that he will be okay. But as of now, the future is uncertain. As is the future for many in his position. And for those who have formerly devoted their lives to their craft. Barry Windham, has an iconically, decorated resume as an American professional wrestler. He traveled all over the world for decades, entertaining people of all ages with his athleticism and undeniable charisma. After those countless years of wrestling matches, traveling and entertaining world wide, he experienced a number of taxing injuries and ended up undergoing multiple surgeries. That led to other health complications. Barry hung his boots for the last time in the early 2000’s. Since then he has been limited with work due to his medical history as well as left without health insurance. To face these times is one of great stress and hardship. As well as one that comes with extensive medical expenses he is taking on. That is overwhelming to say the least. We are politely asking for any increment of financial assistance to help cover his medical expenses and bills and see him through this time. Windham, who became a part of WWE's Hall of Fame in 2012, became a household name with much of his success coming through WCW and the NWA. In 1993, he was NWA World Heavyweight Champion after defeating The Great Muta. In addition, he had three separate WWE runs in his illustrious and lengthy career.

WWE Hall of Famer Barry Windham in ICU following massive heart attack, confirms niece

<p>For more than eight years, Sami Zayn has done everything he could in WWE. He has constantly delivered on his roles, earning trust and adulation among the management and the fans.</p>

<p>However, he had to take a break this week, leading many to wonder what might be the reason behind his absence in the WWE SmackDown.</p>

<p>Earlier, Michael Cole said that Sami could not make it to the show due to personal reasons, but did not elaborate further.</p>

<p>Later, Zayn took to Twitter to explain about his miss in the match. He wrote in Arabic, after translating to English, read, “We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.”</p>

<p>The phrase is a common prayer used in Islam after the death of someone close. While it could not be determined who passed away, there were enough speculations to suggest that was a beloved one.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ar">إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُون</p>
— Sami Zayn (@SamiZayn) <a href="https://twitter.com/SamiZayn/status/1591464202295803904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>He then followed it up with another message asking fans to consider donating to his charity.</p>

<p>"If you’ve enjoyed my work these past few months with #TheBloodline [or are just feeling Ucey] please consider donating to&nbsp;http://SamiForSyria.com," Zayn tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you’ve enjoyed my work these past few months with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheBloodline?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheBloodline</a> (or are just feeling Ucey) please consider donating to <a href="https://t.co/gvJde52kll">https://t.co/gvJde52kll</a></p>
— Sami Zayn (@SamiZayn) <a href="https://twitter.com/SamiZayn/status/1591871304420200448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>But Zayn and WWE television is yet to issue an official statement on this.</p>

<p>Even though Zayn didn’t appear on SmackDown, The Bloodline brawled with Brawling Brutes in the main event segment.</p>

<p>Despite Reigns, The Usos, and Solo Sikoa having an advantage, Drew McIntyre tied the numbers for the Brutes.</p>

<p>It is reported that the two sides will face off later this month at Survivor Series WarGames. Though confirmation is awaited.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE: </strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


For more than eight years, Sami Zayn has done everything he could in WWE. He has constantly delivered on his roles, earning trust and adulation among the management and the fans.

For more than eight years, Sami Zayn has done everything he could in WWE. He has constantly delivered on his roles, earning trust and adulation among the management and the fans. However, he had to take a break this week, leading many to wonder what might be the reason behind his absence in the WWE SmackDown. Earlier, Michael Cole said that Sami could not make it to the show due to personal reasons, but did not elaborate further. Later, Zayn took to Twitter to explain about his miss in the match. He wrote in Arabic, after translating to English, read, “We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.” The phrase is a common prayer used in Islam after the death of someone close. While it could not be determined who passed away, there were enough speculations to suggest that was a beloved one. إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُون — Sami Zayn (@SamiZayn) November 12, 2022 × He then followed it up with another message asking fans to consider donating to his charity. "If you’ve enjoyed my work these past few months with #TheBloodline [or are just feeling Ucey] please consider donating to http://SamiForSyria.com," Zayn tweeted. If you’ve enjoyed my work these past few months with #TheBloodline (or are just feeling Ucey) please consider donating to https://t.co/gvJde52kll — Sami Zayn (@SamiZayn) November 13, 2022 × But Zayn and WWE television is yet to issue an official statement on this. Even though Zayn didn’t appear on SmackDown, The Bloodline brawled with Brawling Brutes in the main event segment. Despite Reigns, The Usos, and Solo Sikoa having an advantage, Drew McIntyre tied the numbers for the Brutes. It is reported that the two sides will face off later this month at Survivor Series WarGames. Though confirmation is awaited. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Here’s the reason why Sami Zayn missed WWE SmackDown

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3b9cc04e-d3a1-447a-a023-923eb63e7a8e}{233}" paraid="2038943422" >After persisting with it for three years, the WWE management headed by Triple H has officially retired the 24/7 Championship.&nbsp;The confirmation came from the Superstars page&nbsp;of WWE.com, which has listed the title as being in existence from 2019–2022.&nbsp; The decision to end the 24/7 Championship came days after Nikki Cross beat Dana Brooke to claim the marquee title.&nbsp;After the smackdown, Cross can be seen dumping the title in the trash in a backstage segment while walking alongside Damage CTRL, seeming to convey the fate of the belt.&nbsp; &nbsp;She can then be seen walking away with the title lying on the floor.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3b9cc04e-d3a1-447a-a023-923eb63e7a8e}{44}" paraid="77525597" >Later that night, Brooke reacted to Cross' gesture via Twitter.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{3b9cc04e-d3a1-447a-a023-923eb63e7a8e}{72}" paraid="1250554675" >&nbsp;"Everything I have worked for &amp; tried to elevate... LITERALLY IN THE TRASH! #wwe, (sic)" Brooke tweeted. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Nikki Cross won the 24/7 title and tried to throw it in the trash can 👀 <a href="https://t.co/nI2bpIJrel">pic.twitter.com/nI2bpIJrel</a></p>
— Wrestling Pics &amp; Clips (@WrestleClips) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestleClips/status/1589824589039042561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;It seems her unceremonious act was well received by the top management of the WWE, who finally decided to bid adieu to the flagging event.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The WWE 24/7 Championship has officially been retired. <a href="https://t.co/Kd95uOPPAs">pic.twitter.com/Kd95uOPPAs</a></p>
— Wrestling News (@WrestlingNewsCo) <a href="https://twitter.com/WrestlingNewsCo/status/1590488451320668160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Championship was first introduced by wrestling legend Mick Foley. The rule was almost similar to the WWE Hardcore Championship where it could be defended anywhere at any time.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{b98c2898-4932-4890-9a56-f5a41a07405e}{233}" paraid="1844227672" >The 24/7 event had a total of 195 title reigns in just three-and-a-half years, with R-Truth holding the most title for 53 times of 415 recognized days. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{756828ee-2f14-4988-b095-ebf6625fb45e}{73}" paraid="1450291446" >The second closest person with regards to holding the title was Brooke with 15 reigns for 336 days. &nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{5e96fe6f-2a7d-4885-81e4-24d2e027a476}{84}" paraid="1305135546" >Reggie had the longest 24/7 Championship reign in history at 112 days from July to November of 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p lang="EN-US" paraeid="{04176452-6ae9-4d34-a2ca-dfe756570bd2}{167}" paraid="1609604192" >The title had a brief pause for a while after Vince McMahon retired, and the new regime headed by Triple H was disinterested as McMahon in making the title a priority.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE: </strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


After persisting with it for three years, the WWE management headed by Triple H has officially retired the 24/7 Championship. The confirmation came from the Superstars page of WWE.

After persisting with it for three years, the WWE management headed by Triple H has officially retired the 24/7 Championship. The confirmation came from the Superstars page of WWE.com, which has listed the title as being in existence from 2019–2022. The decision to end the 24/7 Championship came days after Nikki Cross beat Dana Brooke to claim the marquee title. After the smackdown, Cross can be seen dumping the title in the trash in a backstage segment while walking alongside Damage CTRL, seeming to convey the fate of the belt. She can then be seen walking away with the title lying on the floor. Later that night, Brooke reacted to Cross' gesture via Twitter. "Everything I have worked for & tried to elevate... LITERALLY IN THE TRASH! #wwe, (sic)" Brooke tweeted. Nikki Cross won the 24/7 title and tried to throw it in the trash can 👀 pic.twitter.com/nI2bpIJrel — Wrestling Pics & Clips (@WrestleClips) November 8, 2022 × It seems her unceremonious act was well received by the top management of the WWE, who finally decided to bid adieu to the flagging event. The WWE 24/7 Championship has officially been retired. pic.twitter.com/Kd95uOPPAs — Wrestling News (@WrestlingNewsCo) November 9, 2022 × The Championship was first introduced by wrestling legend Mick Foley. The rule was almost similar to the WWE Hardcore Championship where it could be defended anywhere at any time. The 24/7 event had a total of 195 title reigns in just three-and-a-half years, with R-Truth holding the most title for 53 times of 415 recognized days. The second closest person with regards to holding the title was Brooke with 15 reigns for 336 days. Reggie had the longest 24/7 Championship reign in history at 112 days from July to November of 2021. The title had a brief pause for a while after Vince McMahon retired, and the new regime headed by Triple H was disinterested as McMahon in making the title a priority. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WWE 2022: Triple H officially retires 24/7 Championship after Nikki Cross win  

<p>Flamboyant Japanese professional wrestler turned politician Antonio Inoki died Saturday aged 79, according to a company he founded.</p>

<p>His death, which public broadcaster NHK said was from heart failure, brought to an end a varied life in the public eye, during which Inoki fought Muhammad Ali, fostered close personal ties with North Korea, and helped free hostages in Iraq.</p>

<p>The Yokohama native -- born Kanji Inoki -- also starred in American wrestling promotions, as well as serving two separate terms in Japan's legislature.</p>

<p>US wrestling legend Triple H tweeted that Inoki was "one of the most important figures in the history of our business, and a man who embodied the term 'fighting spirit'".</p>

<p>"The legacy of WWE Hall of Famer Antonio Inoki will live on forever," added the chief operating officer of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).</p>

<p>"Antonio Inoki, the founder of New Japan Pro-Wrestling and former professional wrestler, died in Tokyo," the group said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/louis-mckechnie-climate-change-activist-gets-prison-sentence-for-tying-himself-to-goalpost-521369">Louis McKechnie: Climate change activist gets prison sentence for tying himself to goalpost</a></p>

<p>Standing 1.9 metres (six feet three inches) tall, Inoki was a pioneer of mixed martial arts in Japan, and shot to fame in 1976 for taking on world heavyweight champion Ali in a zany wrestler-versus-boxer bout in Tokyo.</p>

<p>There followed appearances in the WWF, as WWE was then known. The company said Saturday: "One of the key figures in the history of Japanese wrestling, Antonio Inoki&nbsp;was&nbsp;among the most respected men in sports-entertainment and a bona fide legend in his homeland."</p>

<p>In 1989 Inoki was elected as an upper-house lawmaker for the now-defunct Sports and Peace Party.</p>

<p>Prior to the 1990 Gulf War, he travelled to Iraq to secure the release of Japanese hostages.</p>

<p>Having built a strong personal connection with North Korea over the years, Inoki travelled there dozens of times to help resolve the issue of Pyongyang's abductions of Japanese citizens during the Cold War.</p>

<p>The wrestler said he wanted to "contribute to world peace through sports" and had arranged martial arts and wrestling festivals in North Korea, often meeting high-ranking officials during his visits.</p>

<p>Japanese officials dismissed the trips as a sideshow.</p>

<p>Asked about them at the time, the then chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga pointedly reminded journalists that Tokyo had a travel ban in place for North Korea, urging the politician to "act appropriately".</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-dont-think-theres-a-big-difference-sebastian-vettels-take-on-f1-2022-new-rules-521264">I don't think there's a big difference: Sebastian Vettel's take on F1 2022 new rules</a></p>

<p>However, Japanese television news provided blanket coverage of Inoki's trip and the visits continued to prompt interest, given the lack of details leaking out about life in North Korea.</p>

<p>Inoki, unmistakable from his outsized chin and trademark tie and red scarf, also forced the government to take an official position about aliens when he tabled a question in a budgetary committee in 2017, saying he had seen a mysterious flying object disappearing over the horizon.</p>

<p>Inoki lost his seat in 1995 and retired as a wrestler in 1998, but was re-elected to the upper house in 2013 as a member of a different opposition party. He retired from politics in 2019, and a year later said he had been diagnosed with heart disease.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Flamboyant Japanese professional wrestler turned politician Antonio Inoki died Saturday aged 79, according to a company he founded. His death, which public broadcaster NHK said was from heart failure, brought to an end a varied life in the public eye, during which Inoki fought Muhammad Ali, fostered close personal ties with North Korea, and helped free hostages in Iraq.

Flamboyant Japanese professional wrestler turned politician Antonio Inoki died Saturday aged 79, according to a company he founded. His death, which public broadcaster NHK said was from heart failure, brought to an end a varied life in the public eye, during which Inoki fought Muhammad Ali, fostered close personal ties with North Korea, and helped free hostages in Iraq. The Yokohama native -- born Kanji Inoki -- also starred in American wrestling promotions, as well as serving two separate terms in Japan's legislature. US wrestling legend Triple H tweeted that Inoki was "one of the most important figures in the history of our business, and a man who embodied the term 'fighting spirit'". "The legacy of WWE Hall of Famer Antonio Inoki will live on forever," added the chief operating officer of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). "Antonio Inoki, the founder of New Japan Pro-Wrestling and former professional wrestler, died in Tokyo," the group said in a statement. Also Read: Louis McKechnie: Climate change activist gets prison sentence for tying himself to goalpost Standing 1.9 metres (six feet three inches) tall, Inoki was a pioneer of mixed martial arts in Japan, and shot to fame in 1976 for taking on world heavyweight champion Ali in a zany wrestler-versus-boxer bout in Tokyo. There followed appearances in the WWF, as WWE was then known. The company said Saturday: "One of the key figures in the history of Japanese wrestling, Antonio Inoki was among the most respected men in sports-entertainment and a bona fide legend in his homeland." In 1989 Inoki was elected as an upper-house lawmaker for the now-defunct Sports and Peace Party. Prior to the 1990 Gulf War, he travelled to Iraq to secure the release of Japanese hostages. Having built a strong personal connection with North Korea over the years, Inoki travelled there dozens of times to help resolve the issue of Pyongyang's abductions of Japanese citizens during the Cold War. The wrestler said he wanted to "contribute to world peace through sports" and had arranged martial arts and wrestling festivals in North Korea, often meeting high-ranking officials during his visits. Japanese officials dismissed the trips as a sideshow. Asked about them at the time, the then chief cabinet secretary Yoshihide Suga pointedly reminded journalists that Tokyo had a travel ban in place for North Korea, urging the politician to "act appropriately". Also Read: I don't think there's a big difference: Sebastian Vettel's take on F1 2022 new rules However, Japanese television news provided blanket coverage of Inoki's trip and the visits continued to prompt interest, given the lack of details leaking out about life in North Korea. Inoki, unmistakable from his outsized chin and trademark tie and red scarf, also forced the government to take an official position about aliens when he tabled a question in a budgetary committee in 2017, saying he had seen a mysterious flying object disappearing over the horizon. Inoki lost his seat in 1995 and retired as a wrestler in 1998, but was re-elected to the upper house in 2013 as a member of a different opposition party. He retired from politics in 2019, and a year later said he had been diagnosed with heart disease.

Japan wrestling legend Antonio Inoki dies at 79

<p>The 2023 World Wrestling Championship will offer five quota places for the 2024 Olympics in each of the 18 weight categories instead of six as UWW on Wednesday announced changes to the qualification process for the Paris Games.</p>

<p>The World Championship, set to be held in Russia from September 16-24, will be the first qualifying event for the Paris Games.</p>

<p>Apart from the 2023 World Championship, the continental qualifiers (Asia, Africa, America, European) 2024, and the 2024 World Olympics Qualifiers will also offer quota for the Games.</p>

<p>Earlier, 108 quotas were awarded at the World Championships (six per Olympic weight) but now 90 quota places will be on offer. The first six (6) highest placed athletes in each of the 18 Olympic weight categories at the 2019 Senior World Championships were awarded quotas for the Tokyo Games.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-arshdeep-singh-breathes-fire-takes-3-wickets-in-a-single-over-to-rattle-south-africa-in-1st-t20i-520589">WATCH -&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh breathes fire, takes 3 wickets in a single over to rattle South Africa in 1st T20I</a></p>

<p>However, only top-5 wrestlers will earn quotas for their countries in Russia. It means that all four medallists (gold, silver and two bronze winners) will secure the quota for their respective nations and the two bronze medal play-offs losers will contest for the fifth spot.</p>

<p>United World Wrestling (UWW) President Nenad Lalovic said, the changes are aimed at creating "further fairness in the distribution between the World Championships and the World Qualifier."</p>

<p>A total of 144 wrestlers will qualify for the Paris Games through the continental qualifying events (Asian, African, Pan-American and European). The top two wrestlers in each Olympic weight class will get one spot each for their NOCs.</p>

<p>The quota winners at the 2023 World Championship will not be eligible to participate in the continental qualifiers unless they participate in a different style.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-red-storm-is-coming-to-qatar-michael-sheens-inspiring-speech-to-wales-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup-2022-520631">'A red storm is coming to Qatar': Michael Sheen's inspiring speech to Wales ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>At the World Olympic Qualifiers, three quotas in each Olympic weight class instead of the two previously will be at stake.</p>

<p>Not just the gold and silver medal winners will secure quotas but the bronze medal winners will also get a chance to earn quota. The bronze winners will fight it out for the quota in each of the 18 categories.</p>

<p>Unused quotas due to withdrawal, doping offence, or non-participation, will be transferred to the next best wrestler of that weight category of the tournament.</p>

<p>The deadline for the Olympic Games entries will be July 8, 2024. The wrestling competition will be held from August 4-11.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The 2023 World Wrestling Championship will offer five quota places for the 2024 Olympics in each of the 18 weight categories instead of six as UWW on Wednesday announced changes to the qualification process for the Paris Games.

The 2023 World Wrestling Championship will offer five quota places for the 2024 Olympics in each of the 18 weight categories instead of six as UWW on Wednesday announced changes to the qualification process for the Paris Games. The World Championship, set to be held in Russia from September 16-24, will be the first qualifying event for the Paris Games. Apart from the 2023 World Championship, the continental qualifiers (Asia, Africa, America, European) 2024, and the 2024 World Olympics Qualifiers will also offer quota for the Games. Earlier, 108 quotas were awarded at the World Championships (six per Olympic weight) but now 90 quota places will be on offer. The first six (6) highest placed athletes in each of the 18 Olympic weight categories at the 2019 Senior World Championships were awarded quotas for the Tokyo Games. Also Read: WATCH - Arshdeep Singh breathes fire, takes 3 wickets in a single over to rattle South Africa in 1st T20I However, only top-5 wrestlers will earn quotas for their countries in Russia. It means that all four medallists (gold, silver and two bronze winners) will secure the quota for their respective nations and the two bronze medal play-offs losers will contest for the fifth spot. United World Wrestling (UWW) President Nenad Lalovic said, the changes are aimed at creating "further fairness in the distribution between the World Championships and the World Qualifier." A total of 144 wrestlers will qualify for the Paris Games through the continental qualifying events (Asian, African, Pan-American and European). The top two wrestlers in each Olympic weight class will get one spot each for their NOCs. The quota winners at the 2023 World Championship will not be eligible to participate in the continental qualifiers unless they participate in a different style. Also Read: 'A red storm is coming to Qatar': Michael Sheen's inspiring speech to Wales ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022 At the World Olympic Qualifiers, three quotas in each Olympic weight class instead of the two previously will be at stake. Not just the gold and silver medal winners will secure quotas but the bronze medal winners will also get a chance to earn quota. The bronze winners will fight it out for the quota in each of the 18 categories. Unused quotas due to withdrawal, doping offence, or non-participation, will be transferred to the next best wrestler of that weight category of the tournament. The deadline for the Olympic Games entries will be July 8, 2024. The wrestling competition will be held from August 4-11.

World Wrestling Championships to offer fewer quotas for Paris Olympics, World Qualifier gets more: UWW

<p>Bouncing back from her shock defeat against Khulan Batkhuyag of Mongolia in the qualification round, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat went on to beat Sweden's Emma Malmgren in the bronze medal match of the women's 53kg category to create history at the ongoing Wrestling World Championships 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Phogat defeated reigning European champion Malmgren 8-0 in the bronze medal match to secure her second medal at the World Championships. The 28-year-old dominated the proceedings against the Swedish to join an elite list of Indian wrestlers who have won multiple medals at the World Championships.</p>

<p>The Commonwealth Games gold medallist had earlier won a bronze medal at the 2019 edition of the World Championships. She is the first Indian woman to win more than one medal at the Wrestling World Championships.</p>

<p>It was not an ideal start for Phogat at the competition as lost in a one-sided contest against 2022 Asian championships silver medalist Batkhuyag in the qualification round on Tuesday. Phogat trailed 3-0 at the end of the opening round of her match against the Mongolian before going down 7-0 to bow out of the race for the elusive gold.</p>

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<p>Phogat got a shot at redemption after Batkhuyag reached the final of the women's 53kg category by registering wins in her next matches. She&nbsp;eventually settled with a silver medal after losing against Dominique Parrish of the United States of America.</p>

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<p>Phogat was up against 2018 Asian Games silver medallist Zhuldyz Eshimova of Kazakhstan in her first repechage match. She defeated her 4-0 and attained a win by Fall before winning against Azerbaijan's Leyla Gurbanova in her next repechage match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 27-year-old Indian star then locked horns with&nbsp;Malmgren in the bronze medal match and completed her redemption with a clinical victory.</p>


Bouncing back from her shock defeat against Khulan Batkhuyag of Mongolia in the qualification round, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat went on to beat Sweden's Emma Malmgren in the bronze medal match of the women's 53kg category to create history at the ongoing Wrestling World Championships 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia on Wednesday.

Bouncing back from her shock defeat against Khulan Batkhuyag of Mongolia in the qualification round, Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat went on to beat Sweden's Emma Malmgren in the bronze medal match of the women's 53kg category to create history at the ongoing Wrestling World Championships 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia on Wednesday. Phogat defeated reigning European champion Malmgren 8-0 in the bronze medal match to secure her second medal at the World Championships. The 28-year-old dominated the proceedings against the Swedish to join an elite list of Indian wrestlers who have won multiple medals at the World Championships. The Commonwealth Games gold medallist had earlier won a bronze medal at the 2019 edition of the World Championships. She is the first Indian woman to win more than one medal at the Wrestling World Championships. It was not an ideal start for Phogat at the competition as lost in a one-sided contest against 2022 Asian championships silver medalist Batkhuyag in the qualification round on Tuesday. Phogat trailed 3-0 at the end of the opening round of her match against the Mongolian before going down 7-0 to bow out of the race for the elusive gold. Also Read: Mayweather to return to the ring for an exhibition bout against popular YouTuber KSI's brother, Deji Phogat got a shot at redemption after Batkhuyag reached the final of the women's 53kg category by registering wins in her next matches. She eventually settled with a silver medal after losing against Dominique Parrish of the United States of America. Also Read: 'Some retire only once': Amit Mishra takes a dig at Shahid Afridi over his retirement advice to Virat Kohli Phogat was up against 2018 Asian Games silver medallist Zhuldyz Eshimova of Kazakhstan in her first repechage match. She defeated her 4-0 and attained a win by Fall before winning against Azerbaijan's Leyla Gurbanova in her next repechage match. The 27-year-old Indian star then locked horns with Malmgren in the bronze medal match and completed her redemption with a clinical victory.

Vinesh Phogat defeats Sweden's Emma Malmgren to win bronze at World Wrestling Championships 2022

<p>Commonwealth gold medalist Vinesh Phogat advanced to the repechage round of the ongoing World Wrestling Championships 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia on Tuesday. Vinesh Phogat, a 2019 world championships bronze medalist, was handed a shocking 7-0 defeat by 2022 Asian championships silver medalist Khulan Batkhuyag of Mongolia in the qualification round.</p>

<p>The Indian wrestler trailed Batkhuyag 3-0 at the end of the opening round and conceded another four points in the final moments to lose the bout. Khulan Batkhuyag stormed through to the final by winning her next matches giving Vinesh Phogat a likely shot at the bronze medal. Vinesh Phogat will now take on 2018 Asian Games silver medallist Zhuldyz Eshimova of Kazakhstan in the repechage on Wednesday. The other four Indian women competing on the day, meanwhile, failed to progress further. Sushma Shokeen, who won bronze at the Asian Championships in April, lost to Moldova`s Mariana Dragutan in the repechage round in the women`s 55kg.</p>

<p>Sushma Shokeen defeated Pan-American champion Yaynelis Sanz Verdecia of Cuba on Monday before losing to the last edition`s bronze medalist Oleksandra Khomenets of Ukraine despite leading at one stage. Sushma Shokeen once again had the upper hand in the repechage round and led Mariana Dragutan 8-2 at the end of round one. However, Dragutan, the reigning Under-23 European champion, inflicted a fall on the Indian in round two to seal the victory.</p>

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<p>Neelam, competing in the 50kg, was the only Indian to register a win on Tuesday. The Under-23 Asian silver medallist Indian beat Szimonetta Timea Szeker 4-2 to qualify for the main draw. Neelam then lost to two-time world championships silver medallist Emilia Alina Vuc of Romania 10-0 via technical superiority. Shefali (65kg) lost to two-time world championships medallist Koumba Selene Fanta Larroque of France 10-0 via technical superiority in the qualifiers.</p>

<p>Priyanka, who won silver at the under-20 world championships last month, went down to three-time Pan-American silver medallist Genesis Rosangela Reasco Valdezin of Ecuador via technical superiority in the qualifying round of 76kg. Apart from Vinesh Phogat, last edition`s bronze medallist Sarita Mor (57kg), Mansi Ahlawat (59kg), Nisha Dahiya (68kg) and (72kg) will be in action on Wednesday. India are yet to win a medal at the world wrestling championships 2022.&nbsp;</p>


Commonwealth gold medalist Vinesh Phogat advanced to the repechage round of the ongoing World Wrestling Championships 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia on Tuesday. Vinesh Phogat, a 2019 world championships bronze medalist, was handed a shocking 7-0 defeat by 2022 Asian championships silver medalist Khulan Batkhuyag of Mongolia in the qualification round.

Commonwealth gold medalist Vinesh Phogat advanced to the repechage round of the ongoing World Wrestling Championships 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia on Tuesday. Vinesh Phogat, a 2019 world championships bronze medalist, was handed a shocking 7-0 defeat by 2022 Asian championships silver medalist Khulan Batkhuyag of Mongolia in the qualification round. The Indian wrestler trailed Batkhuyag 3-0 at the end of the opening round and conceded another four points in the final moments to lose the bout. Khulan Batkhuyag stormed through to the final by winning her next matches giving Vinesh Phogat a likely shot at the bronze medal. Vinesh Phogat will now take on 2018 Asian Games silver medallist Zhuldyz Eshimova of Kazakhstan in the repechage on Wednesday. The other four Indian women competing on the day, meanwhile, failed to progress further. Sushma Shokeen, who won bronze at the Asian Championships in April, lost to Moldova`s Mariana Dragutan in the repechage round in the women`s 55kg. Sushma Shokeen defeated Pan-American champion Yaynelis Sanz Verdecia of Cuba on Monday before losing to the last edition`s bronze medalist Oleksandra Khomenets of Ukraine despite leading at one stage. Sushma Shokeen once again had the upper hand in the repechage round and led Mariana Dragutan 8-2 at the end of round one. However, Dragutan, the reigning Under-23 European champion, inflicted a fall on the Indian in round two to seal the victory. ALSO READ | Vinesh Phogat loses 0-7 in qualification, suffers shocking exit from Wrestling World Championships 2022 Neelam, competing in the 50kg, was the only Indian to register a win on Tuesday. The Under-23 Asian silver medallist Indian beat Szimonetta Timea Szeker 4-2 to qualify for the main draw. Neelam then lost to two-time world championships silver medallist Emilia Alina Vuc of Romania 10-0 via technical superiority. Shefali (65kg) lost to two-time world championships medallist Koumba Selene Fanta Larroque of France 10-0 via technical superiority in the qualifiers. Priyanka, who won silver at the under-20 world championships last month, went down to three-time Pan-American silver medallist Genesis Rosangela Reasco Valdezin of Ecuador via technical superiority in the qualifying round of 76kg. Apart from Vinesh Phogat, last edition`s bronze medallist Sarita Mor (57kg), Mansi Ahlawat (59kg), Nisha Dahiya (68kg) and (72kg) will be in action on Wednesday. India are yet to win a medal at the world wrestling championships 2022.

Wrestling World C'ships: Vinesh Phogat enters repechage round, likely to get shot at bronze

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