The invitation comes in the wake of the recent Freestyle Wrestling World Cup held in Iranian Western city of Kermanshah where Iran’s national squad of freestyle wrestlers defeated the US rivals at the final to crown the World Cup for the sixth consecutive time.
During the stay of the American squad in Iran, the team was warmly received by Iranian fans with roses and selfies. Burroughs, in particular, is especially popular in Iran, so much so that the American champion said he has more fans in Tehran “than from any other city.”
The sports event gained special attention from the media as speculations rose about the actual participation of the American team following the now frozen travel ban order by US President Donald Trump. But sports won over politics this time to bring the people of the two nations closer together despite the US government continued hostility toward Iran.
Despite their defeat, Burroughs described the wrestling competition as one of the best moments in his whole wrestling career and lauded Iranian fans for their warm welcome and support.
Burroughs and his family have been invited by Iran Wrestling Federation to visit Iran on a ten-day stay to become more familiar with the country’s historical cities and enjoy its many tourist attractions.
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