John Smith vs. Stepan Sarkisyan (1988)

About

The 1988 Olympic match between John Smith and Stepan Sarkisyan was a pivotal event in the men's freestyle 62 kg category. Held at the Sangmu Gymnasium in Seongnam, South Korea, this competition saw John Smith from the United States face off against Stepan Sarkisyan from the Soviet Union. Smith, known for his exceptional wrestling skills, particularly his mastery of the low single technique, was a strong contender for the gold medal. Sarkisyan, on the other hand, represented a formidable challenge with his own set of skills and strategies. The match highlighted both wrestlers' abilities to adapt and counter each other's moves. Smith's agility and speed allowed him to execute swift level changes and fakes, keeping Sarkisyan on his toes. Despite Sarkisyan's strong defense, including a notable sprawl to counter Smith's low single, Smith managed to secure crucial takedowns. This match showcased not only Smith's skill but also Sarkisyan's resilience and strategic thinking. Ultimately, Smith's performance earned him the gold medal, marking a significant victory for the United States in the wrestling arena.