Sr Asian Wrestling: Sunil Kumar Captures Bronze in Greco-Roman 87 kg in Amman
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Synopsis
Sunil Kumar made a remarkable debut for India at the 2025 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship in Amman, capturing a bronze medal in the Greco-Roman 87 kg category. His impressive performance included key victories, although he faced a setback in the semifinals.
Key Takeaways
- Sunil Kumar wins bronze in Greco-Roman 87 kg.
- Competition took place in Amman, Jordan.
- Strong performance by Indian wrestlers.
- WFI conducted transparent selection trials.
- Next rounds in Greco-Roman style will continue on Wednesday.
Amman (Jordan), March 26 (NationPress) — Greco-Roman wrestler Sunil Kumar kicked off India's campaign on a high note by clinching a bronze medal on the inaugural day of the 2025 Senior Asian Wrestling Championship, which began in Amman, Jordan, on Tuesday.
The opening day of the competition was filled with intense matchups as wrestlers competed in five weight categories of Greco-Roman style, according to a statement from the Wrestling Federation.
In the men’s 87 kg Greco-Roman category, Sunil Kumar showcased an impressive performance, earning a bronze for India by defeating Jiaxin Huang from China with a score of 5-1 in the bronze medal bout.
On his path to the podium, the 25-year-old Sunil Kumar overcame Sukhrob AbdulKhaev of Tajikistan but was edged out in the semifinals by Yasin Ali Yazdi from Iran, who ultimately secured a silver medal after losing to Jalgasbay Berdimuratov of Uzbekistan in the final.
In the men’s 55kg division, India's Nitin was eliminated after a 9-0 defeat to Yu Choi Ro of North Korea in the qualification round. In the 63kg division, Umesh lost to Sultan Assetuly of Kazakhstan via Victory by Superiority (VSU) after his opponent quickly established a 9-0 lead.
In the men’s 77kg category, Sagar Thakran was defeated by Amro Abed Alfattah Jamal Sadeh from Jordan in the quarterfinals via Victory by Superiority. The 20-year-old had previously won by fall against Aryan Bin Azman of Singapore in the qualification round before being eliminated by his 25-year-old Jordanian opponent, who later lost to Aram Vardanyan of Uzbekistan in the semifinals.
The remaining five weight categories in Greco-Roman style will be held on Wednesday, with further results to be announced.
The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has assembled a formidable team for the Asian Championship following successful selection trials at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi. Notable World Championship medallists Antim Panghal and Deepak Punia have rejoined the squad, which boasts several strong medal contenders.
The selection trials were conducted under the supervision of the WFI Selection Committee, which includes Sanjay Kumar Singh (WFI President), Jai Prakash (Vice President), Olympian S.P. Deshwal, and Olympic Medallist Yogeshwar Dutt. The WFI extended invitations to top wrestlers nationwide for the trials, ensuring a competitive and transparent selection procedure.
