How did Bajrang Punia perform at Tokyo Olympics? A detailed look at the Indian wrestler's performance at the previous Olympic Games

Bajrang Punia, an Indian freestyle wrestler, competes in the 65-kg weight category. He made a remarkable Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020, clinching the bronze medal in the 65kg freestyle event despite a knee injury.

He secured the medal after defeating Kazakhstan's Daulet Niyazbekov with an 8–0 margin in the bronze medal match.

Earlier in the event, the Haryana-born wrestler showcased his prowess, overpowering Morteza Ghiasi of Iran with a decisive fall in the quarter-finals. However, in a nail-biting match, he narrowly evaded a loss against Ernazar Akmataliev of Kyrgyzstan in the Round of 16 and eventually advanced to the semi-finals.

Unfortunately, the Indian lost to Azerbaijan’s Haji Aliyev in the semi-finals. However, he earned a spot in the bronze medal match. Niyazbekov, who lost to Aliyev in the quarter-finals, defeated Senegal’s Adama Diatta and earned a spot in the bronze medal match to face Bajrang Punia.

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A closer look at the Bajrang Punia vs Daulet Niyazbekov bronze medal match at Tokyo Olympics

Facing Niyazbekov, who had previously defeated Punia in the 2019 World Championships semi-finals, the Indian approached the match with strategic precision.

Punia took control and scored the first point through a passivity penalty on his opponent. Niyazbekov attempted to close the gap but Punia showcased remarkable defensive skills and blocked his attacks.

As the first period drew to an end, Bajrang Punia extended his lead by forcing Niyazbekov out of bounds. He subsequently asserted his dominance in the second period, executing a two-point takedown and solidified his lead to 4-0.

Notably, he performed magnificently from there and cruised to an 8-0 win with some aggressive wrestling.

Winning the medal, he joined the ranks of his mentor Yogeshwar Dutt, who had previously won the bronze in the men’s 60kg freestyle at the London 2012 Olympics.

His win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics showcased his exceptional talent along with his resilience and determination to overcome challenges on the biggest stage.