Jordan Burroughs

Jordan Burroughs is an American freestyle wrestler and one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the sport. A gold medalist at the 2012 Summer Olympics and a four-time World Champion, he has dominated the 74 kg weight class for over a decade. Renowned for his explosive double-leg takedown and competitive longevity, Burroughs is a prominent figure in USA Wrestling and a global ambassador for wrestling.

Early life and education

Born in Camden, New Jersey, Burroughs was raised in Sicklerville and began wrestling in the fifth grade. He attended Winslow Township High School, where he became a two-time NJSIAA state champion. His success earned him a scholarship to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he wrestled for the Cornhuskers under coach Mark Manning. At Nebraska, Burroughs won two NCAA Division I national titles, including an undefeated senior season in 2011, and was a four-time All-American.

Wrestling career

After his collegiate career, Burroughs quickly transitioned to the international freestyle wrestling circuit, joining the elite Sunkist Kids Wrestling Club. He made his senior world team debut in 2011, immediately capturing the World Championship in Istanbul. His signature move, a powerful double-leg takedown, became feared worldwide. Burroughs has been a mainstay on the United States national wrestling team, competing in major events like the Pan American Games, the World Cup, and the Golden Grand Prix. His rivalry with athletes like Kyle Dake for the U.S. team spot has been a compelling narrative in American wrestling.

International freestyle success

Burroughs' international resume is unparalleled among American freestyle wrestlers. He triumphed at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, defeating Sadegh Goudarzi of Iran in the final. He added World Championship golds in 2013 (Budapest), 2015 (Las Vegas), and 2017 (Paris). After a period of intense competition from rivals like Zaurbek Sidakov of Russia and Frank Chamizo of Italy, Burroughs showcased remarkable resilience, winning a bronze medal at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo and securing World silver medals in 2021 and 2022. He claimed his seventh world medal, a bronze, at the 2023 World Wrestling Championships in Belgrade.

Legacy and influence

Jordan Burroughs is widely considered one of the greatest American wrestlers of all time, often mentioned alongside legends like John Smith and Bruce Baumgartner. His longevity at the highest level has inspired a generation of athletes in the United States and globally. Beyond his medals, he is a vocal advocate for the sport, featured in media outlets like ESPN and through his popular podcast "The Beat the Streets Podcast." His sportsmanship and dedication have made him a respected ambassador, contributing significantly to the growth of organizations like Beat the Streets and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.

Personal life

Burroughs is married to Lauren Mariacher, a former gymnast for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and they have four children. The family resides in Lincoln, Nebraska. He is known for his strong Christian faith and often speaks about the importance of family and faith in his life. Burroughs is also an entrepreneur, launching his own line of wrestling apparel and maintaining an active presence on social media platforms where he engages with fans and promotes the sport.

Category:1988 births Category:American male sport wrestlers Category:Olympic gold medalists for the United States in wrestling Category:World Wrestling Champions