Still Really Excited for the World Cup

Jordan Burroughs at the 2015 World Cup

Russia will not be in Iowa City next weekend which is going to be the first time they (or the Soviet Union) will not be at the World Cup that started in 1973. That span covers many tumultuous political times including recently when Russia wrestled Ukraine in 2014 right after they annexed the Crimea peninsula. Not having Iran or Russia at this year's installment is really unfortunate, but does still leave a can't miss event to watch. 

USA has a lineup that might be the best they've ever had. The defending 2017 team champions are led by two legends in their prime Burroughs & Snyder, return four other medalists, and fill in the two new classes with Kyle Dake and David Taylor who already have impressive international wins. Watching Team USA win is always fun and great for fans in any sport. Swimming fans don't care only a few countries are competitive. They love the medals. 

Even if Team USA rolls, it still would essentially be an all-star meet of top American wrestlers in action in one place. That's something we don't see often, especially on domestic soil right here in the midwest. I'd pay a lot of money to see these guys wrestle anybody taking turns in the spotlight on the mat in front of me. 

Team USA probably won't have an easy time though. Azerbaijan split with the Americans in 2017 4-4 with USA winning on criteria. In 2016, Georgia beat USA 4-4 on criteria for 3rd place. Cuba has a style that notoriously gives Americans issues and they plan on bringing three accomplished veterans with plenty of American wins on their belts Bonne, Lopez, and Salas. Bonne is my favorite international wrestler to watch. The guy lights up scoreboards everywhere.

The action will be great and I look forward to watching some Freestyle. I hope to see you there or in Gable's Garden!