'Baffled' Iowa Congressman, Others Opposing Decision to Drop Wrestling from Olympics

The backlash continues against the decision by the 15-member IOC board to drop wrestling from the Olympic Games in 2020.

Democratic and Republican congressmen are filing a resolution of opposition to the decision to drop wrestling as a core sport.

“The decision by the International Olympic Committee to drop wresting is baffling," said Congressman Dave Loebsack, a Democrat from Iowa's second district, which includes Iowa City. "The history of collegiate and Olympic wrestling runs through Iowa. From Dan Gable and Tom Brands to Cael Sanderson and Jake Varner, Iowa has represented the sport with determination and the hard work it takes to succeed in life and sport."

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Entire State of Iowa Freaks Out Over the IOC's Decision to Drop Olympic Wrestling

"I will continue to work with my colleagues to change this ruling on behalf of Iowa’s, and America’s, storied wrestling history,” he said in a joint news release with Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, and Tim Walz, D-Minnesota.

They say they plan to introduce the resolution in the House of Representatives in the coming days.

Bruce Braley, a Democrat who represents Marion in the first district, also spoke out against the decision, saying he is "outraged," but does not have his name attached to any resolutions at this point.

Iowa has as much passion for the sport as anywhere, and that was obvious when the news spread on Tuesday.

Wrestling has roots throughout the United States and world, and that also is becoming evident as the backlash grows.

“Wrestling defines the Olympic spirit like no other sport. The IOC got this one dead wrong, and their decision threatens to extinguish the dreams of countless American athletes. I look forward to working with my friends in the wrestling community toward reversing this ruling,” Jordan said.

“I am disappointed by the IOC’s decision to eliminate wrestling from the Olympic Games. Minnesota has a storied and rich wrestling heritage. This is especially true in southern Minnesota where wrestling gives students the confidence, courage, and work ethic it takes to be successful not only in the sport, but also in life. I urge the urge the IOC to reconsider their decision and reinstate wrestling as a core sport of the Summer Games,” Walz said.