Is Greco Roman Wrestling Still in the Olympics?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Is Greco Roman Wrestling Still in the Olympics? When it comes to combat sports, wrestling has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. In the Olympic Games, wrestling has been a staple event for over a century. However, there are different styles of wrestling, one of which is Greco Roman wrestling. But is it still included in the Olympics? Let’s find out. The Origins of Greco Roman Wrestling Greco Roman wrestling originated in ancient Greece and was later adopted by the Romans. This style of wrestling emphasizes upper body holds and prohibits any attacks below the waist, including leg trips and holds. It is known for its technical aspects and requires great strength, skill, and strategy. The Olympic Inclusion Greco Roman wrestling has a long-standing tradition in the Olympic Games. It was first introduced in 1896 when modern Olympic Games were revived. Since then, it has remained an integral part of the Olympics with both men’s and women’s events. The Threat of Exclusion In recent years, there have been debates surrounding the inclusion of certain sports in the Olympic program due to various reasons such as popularity and global appeal. Wrestling itself faced a major setback when it was at risk of being excluded from future Olympics after the 2012 London Games. In 2013, The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that wrestling would be dropped from the core program after 2016. This decision sparked outrage among wrestlers and fans worldwide. However, this setback didn’t last long as passionate efforts were made by the wrestling community to bring it back into the fold. A Battle to Regain Its Place Wrestling enthusiasts and organizations rallied together to prove that wrestling had a rightful place in the Olympics. The sport underwent significant changes to adapt to the modern era, including rule modifications and increased gender equality. In September 2013, wrestling was reinstated by the IOC for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Greco Roman Wrestling Today With its inclusion in the Tokyo Olympics and subsequent Games, Greco Roman wrestling continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Athletes from various countries showcase their strength, technique, and determination on the mat. The sport has also gained popularity beyond its traditional strongholds, attracting new fans and aspiring wrestlers. The Road Ahead The future of Greco Roman wrestling in the Olympics remains promising. Its rich history combined with ongoing efforts to promote the sport ensures its place in future Games. However, it is crucial for wrestlers and supporters alike to continue advocating for the sport’s importance and relevance on the Olympic stage. In Conclusion Greco Roman wrestling is indeed still a part of the Olympic Games. Despite facing temporary exclusion, it has proven its worth through passionate efforts from wrestlers worldwide. As we look forward to future Olympic Games, we can expect to witness more thrilling moments of strength and skill in Greco Roman wrestling.
