Zholaman Sharshenbekov to Switch Weight Categories After Olympics
Bishkek – 24.kg news agency
Renowned Greco-Roman wrestler Zholaman Sharshenbekov, a two-time world champion and three-time Asian champion, recently revealed his plans to switch to the 67-kilogram weight category after the Olympics in Paris. In an interview with the United World Wrestling, Sharshenbekov expressed his desire to challenge himself by competing against stronger opponents in this new weight class.
Having competed in the 60-kilogram weight category at the Asian Championship in April 2024, Sharshenbekov explained that his ultimate dream since childhood has been to become an Olympic champion, as well as a multiple world and Asian champion. While he has already achieved some of these goals, he remains focused on reaching greater heights in his wrestling career.
Reflecting on his past achievements, Sharshenbekov disclosed that his second-place finish at the World Championship in 2018 served as a turning point in his career. At just 18 years old at the time, this accomplishment motivated him to redouble his efforts and strive for even more success in the sport.
In his downtime, Sharshenbekov enjoys unwinding at the bathhouse with his fellow wrestlers as a way to relax and recover from intense training sessions. He emphasized the importance of rest and rejuvenation for athletes, especially during competitions when coaches restrict visits to the bathhouse. Following their time at the bathhouse, Sharshenbekov and his teammates take a refreshing swim in a nearby mountain river to further recharge their bodies.
As Sharshenbekov looks ahead to his future in the 67-kilogram weight category and beyond, his commitment to excellence and passion for wrestling continue to drive him towards his ultimate goal of Olympic glory.
