Chargé d’Affaires Guevara at the United States Embassy warmly welcomed a U.S. Sports Envoy to Azerbaijan, extending heartfelt thanks for their efforts in promoting the inclusion of women and girls in sports while strengthening U.S. - Azerbaijan relations. This historic trip was part of a U.S. State Department Sports Exchange program themed “Empowering Girls and Women Through Wrestling.”

It is no secret that Iran often dominates the Asian Wrestling Championships. Amidst headlines reporting on the Iran-Israel conflict and the United State’s involvement in the Middle East, a remarkable display of sportsmanship and diplomacy unfolded at the Championships held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan April 11-16, 2024.

Tajikistan shares a complex history with its neighbor, Kyrgyzstan, marked by territorial disputes and occasional outbreaks of violence. Against this backdrop of tension, initiatives like Wrestling for Peace (W4P) take on added significance. W4P is more than just a sporting event; it is a platform for bringing together communities, transcending barriers, and nurturing a sense of purpose.

We’re thrilled to share some incredible news! Our Wrestling for Peace Ambassadors have been extended a prestigious invitation to be special guests at the upcoming World Nomad Games in Astana, Kazakhstan, September 8-14, 2024. In this incredible gathering of peoples and nations, with 20 sports represented, we will be diving headfirst into the growing international sport of Mas-wrestling.

In a world too often fraught with division and conflict, initiatives that promote peace and unity are beacons of hope. One such initiative recently made its mark in Cape Town, South Africa, as Wrestling for Peace offered a clinic aimed at empowering the local community through the sport of wrestling.

Wrestling for Peace arrived in Tirana, Albania for the U23 World Championships on October 23, 2023. The championships showcased the best of the best young wrestlers from across the globe. The competition commenced with Freestyle, followed by the Women and then finishing with Greco-Roman.

Wrestling for Peace celebrated a significant victory as Pakistan triumphed on the world stage at the Veterans World Championships held in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Mohammad Akram Khan, representing Pakistan, clinched a prestigious bronze medal in the esteemed tournament, marking a momentous achievement for Pakistani wrestling.

In the heart of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, the wrestling mats became arenas not just for physical prowess but also for the spirit of unity and peace. The 2022 Veterans World Wrestling Championships witnessed a remarkable display of skill and camaraderie as athletes from across the globe converged to compete. Among them were two exceptional wrestlers from Jordan, Saleh Alzriqat and Yahya Abu Tabeekh, whose journey to the podium was not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the power of support and solidarity.

In a world often marred by conflicts and divisions, it's encouraging to witness initiatives that strive to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding among nations. The inaugural Caucasus Wrestling Championships held in Amman, Jordan, stands as a shining example of such efforts, bringing together communities from diverse backgrounds under the common banner of sport and peace.

In the vast expanse of Mongolia, where the winds whisper tales of ancient nomads and the land echoes with the spirit of resilience, a unique convergence of tradition, sport, and diplomacy unfolds. Mrs. Buyana Peljee, esteemed UWW Asia Secretary General, extended an invitation to Wrestling for Peace Ambassador, Dan Russell, to partake in a festival unlike any other, a celebration deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of Mongolian culture.

In a landmark moment for gender equality in sports, the recent U-15 and U-20 Asian Wrestling Championship held in Bahrain witnessed the participation of two trailblazing female athletes from Jordan, Maya Ishakat and Maya Qtaishat. Wrestling for Peace Ambassador, Dan Russell, was present to recognize this historic achievement. The event, which took place at the Khalifa Sports City Arena, marked the first time in the championship's history that women from Jordan competed alongside their male counterparts.

In the heart of Uganda, two remarkable individuals have emerged as beacons of hope and agents of change. Wrestling for Peace Ambassadors Austin Landis and Larry Steckman have embarked on a transformative journey in collaboration with Robert and Pamela Kiggundu, the visionary founders of Hope for Restoration Initiative (H4RI). Together, they are pioneering efforts to combat gender-based violence and uplift communities through empowerment and education.

In the bustling streets of Guatemala, where the echoes of societal challenges reverberate through communities, a unique opportunity emerged to harness the power of sport, instilling hope and steering youngsters away from the perils of street life. At the heart of this initiative lies a simple yet powerful concept: wrestlers helping wrestlers. Through the invaluable support of key figures in the wrestling world, such as Francisco Lee, Steve Fraser, and Lorraine Rorabaugh, the program has gained traction, offering a beacon of light amidst the shadows of adversity.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico faced immense challenges on the path to recovery. Amidst the devastation, however, arose a beacon of hope and resilience in an unexpected form: wrestling. Through the concerted efforts of various organizations and individuals, wrestling emerged as a tool for healing, unity, and rebuilding communities across the island.

Amidst the fierce rivalries of high school wrestling in Idaho, a bond was forged between two successful atheletes, Larry Steckman and Dan Russell. Little did they know that their shared passion for wrestling would lead them on a journey to become Wrestling For Peace Ambassadors, spreading love and hope across borders and cultures.

In the wake of a devastating suicide bombing on September 3, 2018, the Maiwand Wrestling Club in Kabul, Afghanistan, was left in ruin, claiming 26 lives, 16 of whom were young wrestlers, and wounding another 91 people, including members of the coaching staff. This senseless act left behind a host of shattered dreams.

The stage was set at Bishop Kelly High School gymnasium in Boise, Idaho, where 1,500 fervent fans gathered to witness the culmination of a week-long joint training venture between Team USA and the Serbian Greco-Roman National Team. In a remarkable display of athleticism and goodwill, both teams converged to showcase not only their sporting prowess but also their commitment to serving the community.