Russian Sadulaev defeats the American Snyder in wrestling showdown; Hildebrandt snags bronze

It was one of the most hotly anticipated showdowns of the Tokyo Olympics: “Captain America” facing “The Russian Tank” on the wrestling mat.

By Edward Era Barbacena

Tokyo -   Saturday night, it was the “Russian Tank” who rolled over his opponent in the second sequel to their original “Match of the Century.” 

Defending gold medalist Kyle Snyder was unable to get much going against arch-rival Abdulrashid Sadulaev of the ROC in the 97kg freestyle gold medal bout on Saturday, as the 2016 gold medalist at a lower weight class earned a 6-3 decision in the much-anticipated showdown between two wrestling greats who had each defeated the other once.

After a cautious start for both wrestlers, Snyder was put on the "shot clock" -- 30 seconds to score. He wasn't able to do that, and Sadulaev managed to push him out of the rings soon afterwards for another point and a 2-0 lead after the first period.

Sadulaev, a now five-time world champion, won the match 6-3 to claim his second gold medal after cruising to victory at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Kyle Snyder

The second period started badly for Snyder, as Sadulaev got a good grip around the American and exposed his back long enough to get two points.

Snyder drove for Sadulaev's ankle, but the Russian turned things around and was credited with the takedown for a 6-0 lead.

Abdulrashid Sadulaev

Finally, Snyder got Sadulaev's back and dragged him down for two points. He quickly realized he would not be able to turn Sadulaev for any more points and got back up.

With 30 seconds left, Snyder pushed Sadulaev out for another point. But Sadulaev defended well, knowing Snyder needed either a four-point throw or a takedown and multiple exposures on the mat to make up the deficit. Snyder was able to do neither, and Sadulaev took the 6-3 win.

Sadulaev, the 2016 gold medalist at 86kg, hadn't lost since the 2017 world championship 97kg final, when lost to Snyder. He pinned Snyder in the 2018 world championship final and defended the title in 2019.