USA downs Russia
Triumphant return by Cejudo provides spark in 5-2 freestyle win at Times Square in New York City
By Gary Abbott NEW YORK - With an opening victory from 2008 Olympic champion Henry Cejudo and an inspired performance throughout the lineup, the United States defeated Russia in a freestyle wrestling dual meet in Times Square on May 5. The event was held in Duffy Square in
New York City, located in the historic Times Square setting. Thousands of people packed the seats and stood around the raised stage, as thousands of others watched on a large screen overlooking the scene. The event was held as part of the Beat
the Streets Gala, a fundraiser for local wrestling programs. BTS leader Mike Novogratz announced over $1 million was raised.
Henry Cejudo fires in on a leg attack in his win over Russia’s Rasul Mashezov. Cejudo won in two straight periods. John Sachs photo.
“Times Square. America. Wrestling. That was the difference today,” said National Freestyle Coach Zeke Jones. “The training, the confidence, the relaxed atmosphere. The team energy was good. We were intent on winning today. They were going to get this. They would not be denied.”
Cejudo won his first time on the mat since his dramatic victory at the 2008
Olympic Games in Beijing, China. He stopped Junior World bronze medalist Rasul Mashezov, 2-0, 4-3 at 55 kg. He had a key three-point move late in the second period to claim the period and capture the match.
“I feel like a wrestler again. It’s a good
start. I’m not where I was in 2008 but I will get there. I want to do it again for my Continued on page 37
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