With no Olympics, no practice at the centres due to the outbreak of Coronavirus, wrestlers have resorted to individual training. One such grappler is Artur Aleksanyan. The Greco-Roman wrestler is training individually and is focussed on getting the gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
“While all the gyms are closed, I train individually. Yes, Olympics have been postponed but this has not crushed my dreams. I am still working hard and my goal is still the same – Olympic gold medal,” Iran Wrestling Federation reported.
The Armenia grappler fight in 97kg Men’s Greco Roman style. He is the five-time European Champion and three-time World Champion. He has also won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Aleksanyan, apart from training he spends his time reading books and watching movies.
“Of course, other times I watch movies, read books and add to my knowledge,” he said.
He is least concerned about the deferment of the Tokyo Games as it was necessary step given the current scenario. According to him, there is nothing above human life.
“The conditions must be understood, because human life is the most valuable thing. I am currently in good shape and the Olympic postponement will not change my goal for the Olympics”.
Asked if he was afraid of coronavirus, Aleksanyan said: “There is no fear, but there is concern. In fact, I am worried about the future. I am thinking about people’s health and the consequences of this epidemic. I want everyone to be healthy. For everyone, this is a test, a struggle for life, and we must win this field.”
The 2012 Olympic bronze medallist thanked the doctors and said: “I appreciate the efforts of the doctors and the medical staff at a very high level.” All the people who are fighting on the front lines and sacrificing their lives are the heroes of our time, and I am proud of each of them.
“I’m currently watching the 2011 film The Outbreak, directed by Stephen Soderbergh, and I’m reading a book about Mohammad Ali (Kelly) and a biography of Abram Lincoln,” he said.
“I want to encourage everyone to stay home, this is the only way to prevent the coronavirus and save lives,” he added
