Bajrang Punia is just one step away from being crowned the 65 kg freestyle UWW World Champion. The Indian wrestling icon and the most consistent performer in the country, Bajrang Punia will run into the strong Japanese contender Jakuta Otoguro in the 65kg free style final at the UWW World Wrestling Championship 2018 in Budapest.
The 24-year-old has become the second Indian after twin Olympic medallist Sushil Kumar to reach the UWW World Championshipfinals, prevailing over Cuban Alejandro Valdes Tobier 4-3 in an intriguing semi-finals bout at the Papp László Sportaréna, Budapest,on Sunday night.
Bajrang Punia’s final against Otoguro is slated for 09:30 PM (India time) tonight.
Indian wrestling fans can catch the BOUT LIVE on the official website of United World Wrestling (UWW) website.
In case you have missed the live action, CLICK HERE for all the highlights of India’s action at UWW World Wrestling Championship 2018.
Earlier on Sunday, Bajran Punia staved off a late threat from his Cuban rival who had narrowed down the lead from 4-1 to 4-3 before the 2013 Budapest Championship bronze medallist Punia emerged as a deserving winner and booked a berth in the final.
With nine out of India’s 30-member strong squad crashing out of the medal hunt, Bajrang Punia remains country’s best hope for the gold. His career has ripened with recent exploits at the international arena. Already assured of a medal this time, it will be Punia’s second medal at World Championships after a bronze in 2013 Budapest.
The young Haryana boy earlier this year has also won the Commonwealth Games gold in Gold Coast, Australia, and the Asian Games gold medal at Jakarata.
No comments:
Post a Comment