Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022

Amar Dhesi (CAN) who is of Punjabi heritage won his maiden gold medal in wrestling at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Canadian wrestler also known by his first name Amarveer beat Zaman Anwar (PAK) in the 125 kg freestyle category at the Coventry Arena on August 6, 2o22.

Zamad from Pakistan had toppled Mandhir Kooner (ENG) in the semis, whilst Amar Dhesi got the better off Mohit Grewal (IND).

Anni Maija Aalto (FIN: Referee), Stefan Rudevics (AUS ) and Vesna Piperski Cucuic (Mat Chairman) had the responsibility for adjudicating the bout.

Zaman was seen in the green and white singlet, with the Pakistani flag noticeable as an emblem. Dhesi was in a usual Canadian singlet, with a tattoo clearly visible on his right arm.

The father of Dhesi was also a Punjabi wrestler from India before moving to Canada. His father was the founder of the Khalsa Wrestling Club, Surrey, British Columbia, Canada.

Dhesi had a good 2022 season, clinching the Acapulco Pan-Am Wrestling Championships. The power of the Canadian was quite evident as the match began.

He took two points after firmly grabbing the legs of Zaman, with the latter just managing to escape from conceding ay further points.

Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022 - IA 1

Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022 - IA 1

The two were going at a rapid pace. However, the busier Dhesi forced his opponent off the area, gaining another point, as he extended his lead to 3-0.

The large Indian crowd were behind Dhesi, particularly as Zaman was from Pakistan. Secondly, Indian Punjabi support came naturally to Dhesi, with his ancestral roots having a link with India.

Shortly afterwards, an underhook, with a side flick and turnover was enough to give Dhesi an unassailable lead.

Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022 - IA 2

Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022 - IA 2

Whilst finals are more intense, this was one was wide open in the favour of Dhesi. As the match went close to the two minute mark, spectators began chanting his name:

“Dhesi, Dhesi, Dhesi, Dhesi.”

Despite Zaman avoiding a whitewash, Dhesi pinned him in the same tussle for a 9-2 clinical triumph inside the first half.

With it being the first gold for Canada, the achievement became even more special for Dhesi.

In addition, the fact that Dhesi had multiple Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears in the last few years was a testimony to his talent and hard work.

Dhesi was so strong that Zaman did not really get a look in during a very short bout. Having full confidence in is ability, Dhesi had the perfect final execution.

Dhesi went around the arena, with the Canadian flag around his neck. The maple leaf was in the eyes of everyone.

Dhesi gave high fives to fans and supporters of Canada. Desis supporting Dhesi was delightful sight for everyone to witness.

Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022 - IA 3

Gold for Punjabi Wrestler Amar Dhesi: Birmingham 2022 - IA 3

There were big smiles on the faces of the crowd, with Dhesi entertaining a few selfies. A smiling Dhesi collected his medal, with calm, composing and friendly expressions coming through.

It was lovely to see Amar Dhesi on the highest podium with the rest of the medal winning wrestlers also having a  South Asian connection.

If Dhesi can keep fit, then the world is at his oyster. Surely winning mores medals at the world level will be on his mind.

DESIblitz congratulates Amar Dhesi on his amazing win, picking a gold at his first ever Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022.