The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that wrestling has been dropped from the Olypmics, starting at the 2020 Games. The unexpected decision was made via secret ballot on Tuesday in Lausanne, Switzerland where officials were discussing ways to “streamline” the Olympics.
Wrestling has roots in the ancient Greek games and has been part of the Olympics since 1896.
Kurt Angle Comments On The Olympics Dropping Wrestling In 2020
IOC spokesman Mark Adams said, “This is a process of renewing and renovating the program for the Olympics. In the view of the executive board, this was the best program for the Olympic Games in 2020. It’s not a case of what’s wrong with wrestling, it is what’s right with the (other) 25 core sports.” Now wrestling will have to face off with seven other sports that are fighting for inclusion in the 2020 Olympics.
Iron Sheik Talks About The IOC Removing Wrestling From The Olympics
The professional wrestling world is venting their frustrations on Twitter, with superstars expressing shock and Jim Ross calling the decision “ignorant.” 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist Kurt Angle tweeted:
@dynodavid17: I'm Shocked. Will Do an Exclusive Interview Later today. Wrestling Will Stay in Olympics.
— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) February 12, 2013
