Swedish Greco-Roman Wrestler Ara Abrahamian Throws Away Bronze Medal

People claim the Olympic games to be something beyond medals and podiums, winning and losing. But for some people, winning a gold medal is all they care about. And how can you blame an athlete when endorsements, national pride and fame are destiny for a gold medal winner. So when Sweden’s Ara Abrahamian was held to a bronze after a semifinal defeat in the 84kg Greco-Roman competition, Abrahamian did what any crazy looking fool would do: he threw away his medal and left the podium before his nation’s flag was raised.

Abrahamian, who won silver at Athens four years ago, had high hopes of winning the gold in the 84kg competition in Beijing, but was beaten in the semi-final by the eventual winner Andrea Minguzzi of Italy.
The Swedish wrestler had to be restrained by team-mates as a row erupted with judges over the decision in the semi-final.
He shouted at the referee and judges, then approached their seats to complain about the decision, angrily throwing off the restraining arm of a team official.

Abrahamian immediately retired after the event. Something tells us the IOC won’t be too pleased. Video of the tantrum below:


Disgusted Swedish wrestler throws away his bronze medal in amazing Olympic spat [Daily Mail]