Others

Mansi Ahlawat's bronze medal in the women's 59kg category at the World Championships has extended India's medal-winning streak at the prestigious event. However, the men's freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestlers failed to secure any medals, returning empty-handed.Ahlawat, who trains at Sir Chhotu Ram Akhada under coach Mandeep, defeated Canada's Laurence Beauregard 5-0 in the bronze medal bout. She had earlier lost her semifinal 1-4 to Mongolia's Sukhee Tserenchimed after winning three consecutive bouts on Wednesday.Manisha Bhanwala (65kg) also came close to a podium finish but lost her bronze play-off 2-8 to Japan's Miwa Morikawa. Bhanwala had bounced back in contention after winning her repechage round 7-2 against Mongolia's Enkhjin Tuvshinjargal.Kirti (55kg) and Bipasha (72kg) could not reach the medal round.In men's freestyle, Sandeep Mann (92kg) made the repechage round but lost the bout by technical superiority to Slovakia's Btyrbek Tsakuklov. Udit (61kg), Manish Goswami (70kg), and Parvinder Singh (79kg) could not make the medal round.India's Greco-Roman wrestlers, as usual, struggled as Sanjeev (55kg), Chetan (63kg), Ankit Gulia (72kg), and Rohit Dahiya (82kg) faded early in the competition.Despite the men's wrestlers' disappointing performance, Ahlawat's bronze medal has given India something to cheer about at the World Championships. The 23-year-old wrestler has shown great promise and will be one to watch in the future.

Babita Phogat, the former Indian wrestler whose life story inspired the blockbuster Bollywood film "Dangal," has made a startling revelation about the movie's financial details. Despite the film's massive success, Phogat's family received a mere INR 1 crore from its earnings."Out of Rs 2,000 crore made from Dangal, the Phogat family received only Rs 1 crore?" Phogat was asked during an interview with News 24. The wrestler-turned-politician confirmed the figure, stating, "Yes."Phogat emphasized that her family's primary motivation was not financial gain but rather to earn respect and love. "My father always said that we should seek people's love and respect," she explained."Dangal," released in 2016, chronicled the journey of Phogat, her sister Geeta Phogat, and their father, Mahavir Phogat. The film depicted how Mahavir Phogat transformed his daughters into world-class wrestlers, earning numerous accolades for India.Babita Phogat herself has achieved significant success in wrestling. She won a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and a bronze medal at the 2012 World Wrestling Championships. She also represented India at the 2016 Rio Olympics.After retiring from wrestling in 2019, Phogat entered politics. She is currently a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has been vocal about her desire to empower women and promote sports in India.Phogat's revelation about the financial details of "Dangal" has sparked discussions about the distribution of profits in the film industry. It also highlights the importance of fair compensation for those whose stories inspire successful films.

Vinesh Phogat, a renowned Indian wrestler, has refuted allegations made by fellow wrestler Sakshi Malik that the protest against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh was compromised by "greed."In her recently released book "Witness," Malik claimed that individuals close to Phogat and Bajrang Punia, another prominent wrestler, influenced them to seek exemption from Asian Games trials, tarnishing the image of the protests.Phogat vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that she and her fellow wrestlers fought for a just cause. She stated, "No one gave me anything in writing, nor can I assume someone's intentions. The good thing is that we fought for a good cause. If playing in the Olympics and winning a medal for our country is greed, then yes, I will carry that 'greed' till my last breath."Phogat further emphasized the importance of advocating for athletes' rights, saying, "If, as an athlete, speaking up for fellow athletes and standing by my sisters is greed, then I consider it a good kind of greed. The desire to play for the country should always remain."Malik, who was one of the key figures in the protests, alleged that the pursuit of personal interests had overshadowed the collective cause. She wrote in her book, "The old way of thinking selfishly was taking over once again. The people close to Bajrang and Vinesh had started filling their minds with greed. Now they were talking about this exemption from trials for the Games."Malik's claims have sparked controversy within the wrestling community. However, Phogat remains steadfast in her belief that the protests were driven by a genuine desire for change. She said, "What exactly is greed? If, as an athlete, speaking up for fellow athletes and standing by my sisters is greed, then I consider it a good kind of greed."The allegations and counter-allegations have cast a shadow over the wrestling community, raising questions about the integrity of the sport's governing body and the motivations of its athletes. As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the future of Indian wrestling.

Olympic bronze medalist Sakshi Malik has released her autobiography, "Witness," in which she shares her experiences as a wrestler and the challenges she faced throughout her career.Malik, along with Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia, led a protest against the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, in 2021. However, she criticized Phogat and Punia's decision to accept exemption from the Asian Games trials, stating that it undermined the credibility of their protest.Malik also revealed that she was molested by her tuition teacher during her childhood but kept it a secret. She struggled with self-blame and fear, which affected her early wrestling career. Despite her physical abilities, she lacked the confidence to confront opponents.During the WFI protest, Malik expressed disappointment with the political class and accused Babita Phogat, a former wrestler and current BJP politician, of having selfish motives. She alleged that Phogat aimed to replace Sharan Singh rather than solely advocate for the protesters' demands.Malik also shared that her parents took away most of her award money and opposed her relationship with fellow wrestler Satyawart Kadian. However, she stood her ground and fought for her love.Malik's autobiography provides a candid account of her journey as a wrestler, the obstacles she overcame, and the controversies that shaped her career. It highlights the challenges faced by female athletes and the importance of speaking out against injustice.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President PT Usha has strongly criticized former wrestler Vinesh Phogat for blaming the association for her disqualification from the Paris Olympics. Usha asserted that the responsibility lies with Phogat's team, not the IOA.Phogat, who recently entered politics and won her debut election in Haryana, had accused the IOA of mishandling her disqualification. However, Usha refuted these claims, stating that the IOA had provided Phogat with all the necessary support."She was a sportsperson. She should carry the qualities of a sportsman," Usha said. "We all wanted medals from her. After meeting her, we went to the World Wrestling Federation president to protest. They said, 'rules are rules.'"Usha emphasized that Phogat's team was aware of the weight regulations and should have taken appropriate measures to ensure compliance. "For us, it's new, only 100 gms, but for them it is not new. This had happened earlier as well so she should know what to do, and how to tackle it," Usha said.Phogat was disqualified from the 50kg category women's freestyle final for being 100 gm overweight in the second weigh-in. She challenged the verdict in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) but was unsuccessful.Usha expressed disappointment that Phogat had chosen to criticize the IOA instead of acknowledging her own team's shortcomings. "It is not our or our sport science doctor's fault, it is her and her team's fault but still, she criticises us," Usha said.Phogat's disqualification ended her hopes of becoming the first woman Indian wrestler to win silver or gold in the Olympics. She announced her retirement from the sport shortly after the incident.

WWE, the global leader in professional wrestling entertainment, continues to dominate the industry with its roster of iconic superstars. Over the years, the company has produced legendary performers who have captivated audiences worldwide. In 2024, the top-earning WWE stars remain a testament to the company's enduring popularity and financial success.Brock Lesnar reigns supreme as the highest-paid WWE wrestler, earning an astonishing $12 million per year. His exceptional athleticism and unparalleled dominance have made him a fan favorite and a formidable force in the ring. Lesnar's earnings extend beyond his base salary, as he also receives a substantial pay-per-view fee and a share of merchandise sales.Roman Reigns, the current Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, is another top earner, pocketing $5 million annually. His charismatic persona and impressive in-ring skills have propelled him to the forefront of the company. Reigns' star power has also translated into lucrative endorsement deals and other revenue streams.Randy Orton, a veteran of the WWE, earns $4.5 million per year. His longevity and consistent performances have made him one of the most respected and decorated wrestlers in the industry. Orton's signature moves, such as the RKO, have become synonymous with WWE.Triple H, the former WWE Executive Vice President, remains a top earner despite his retirement from in-ring competition. His $3.6 million annual salary reflects his contributions to the company as a performer, executive, and shareholder. Triple H's influence and business acumen have played a significant role in WWE's success.AJ Styles, a former WWE Champion, earns $3.5 million per year. His high-flying style and innovative offense have made him a fan favorite. Styles' charisma and ability to connect with audiences have contributed to his status as one of the most popular wrestlers in the company.Other notable top earners include Becky Lynch ($3 million), Seth Rollins ($3 million), The Undertaker ($2.5 million), The Miz ($2.5 million), and Stephanie McMahon ($2.5 million). These superstars have all achieved significant success in WWE, both in the ring and beyond.Despite the recent departure of Brock Lesnar, WWE remains committed to providing its top stars with lucrative contracts. The company's financial strength and global reach ensure that its wrestlers continue to be among the highest-paid athletes in the world.

The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has issued a notice to wrestler Vinesh Phogat for whereabouts failure. The notice, served on Wednesday, seeks an explanation from Phogat within 14 days.As a member of NADA's Registered Testing Pool (RTP), Phogat is required to provide details of her availability for dope tests. If she fails to provide accurate information or is not present at the specified location and time, it is considered a whereabouts failure.According to the notice, Phogat was not available for a dope test on September 9 at her residence in Kharkhoda village, Sonepat. The NADA notice states, "You are hereby given a formal notice to notify you about apparent failure to comply with the whereabouts requirements of the ADR, and to invite you to make any comments before we come to a final decision on the matter."Phogat has the option to accept the failure or provide evidence that she was present at the specified location for approximately 60 minutes. It is important to note that a single whereabouts failure does not constitute an anti-doping rule violation. However, three whereabouts failures within a 12-month period can lead to charges against an athlete.Phogat's whereabouts failure comes at a time when she is actively involved in politics. She recently joined the Congress party and is contesting the upcoming Haryana Assembly election from Julana constituency.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Disqualification Sparks Political Feud with Yogeshwar DuttVinesh Phogat's disqualification from the Paris Olympic Games 2024 has ignited a heated debate in India, with fellow wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt criticizing her actions and calling for an apology.Phogat, who announced her retirement from wrestling after her disqualification, has since joined the Indian National Congress ahead of the upcoming Haryana elections. However, Dutt, who has also transitioned to politics, believes Phogat should have apologized for costing India a medal.In an interview with AajTak, Dutt expressed his disappointment with Phogat's behavior, both during the Olympic Games and the protests she participated in over the past year. He accused her of tarnishing India's image and creating a false narrative."She should have apologized to the entire nation for her mistakes," Dutt said. "Instead, she blamed a conspiracy and even dragged the Prime Minister into it. The disqualification was fair, and she should have accepted responsibility."Dutt also criticized Phogat's role in the protests, claiming that she misled people and created a negative atmosphere in the country."If I were in Vinesh's place, I would have apologized to the country," Dutt said. "She cost India a medal and then tried to justify her actions by spreading false information."Phogat has yet to respond to Dutt's comments, but her decision to join politics has raised questions about her motives. Some believe that she is using her platform to advance her political career, while others argue that she is genuinely committed to serving the people of Haryana.The feud between Phogat and Dutt highlights the growing divide within India's wrestling community. As the sport continues to gain popularity, it is likely that more wrestlers will enter the political arena, potentially leading to further clashes and controversies.

Former Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who suffered a heartbreaking disqualification at the Paris Olympics 2024, has embarked on a new chapter in her life by joining the Congress party and announcing her political debut.Phogat's decision to retire from wrestling after the Olympic setback has led her to seek a new path in politics. She has filed her nomination for the upcoming Haryana elections, contesting from the Julana Constituency in Jind.An affidavit submitted by Phogat during her nomination filing reveals insights into her financial status. She owns three cars: a Volvo XC 60 (valued at Rs 35 lakh), a Hyundai Creta (valued at Rs 12 lakh), and a Toyota Innova (valued at Rs 17 lakh). She is also repaying a loan related to one of her cars.Phogat's immovable property is valued at Rs 2 crore. She has Rs 1.95 lakh in hand and her Income Tax returns for the financial year 2023-24 show an income of Rs 13,85,000.Phogat's uncle, Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestling coach, expressed his support for her political aspirations. He stated that his daughter, Sangeeta Phogat, will now carry forward his dream of an Olympic medal in wrestling, as he prepares her for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.Last Friday, Phogat and Tokyo Olympic bronze medalist Bajrang Punia (Sangeeta's husband) joined the Congress party. Phogat will make her electoral debut from Julana in Jind district.Mahavir Phogat emphasized that Sangeeta will now focus on the 2028 Olympics, as Vinesh's political career has opened up a new opportunity for her. He also mentioned that Babita Phogat's knee injuries have hindered her return to the mat.