Japanese Olympic Champions to Compete in Moscow: Reaction to Controversial Tournament

On November 8, a tournament of the Professional Wrestling League (PWL) will take place in Moscow, featuring Japanese wrestlers Yui Susaki and Nonoka Ozaki. Yui Susaki, the Olympic champion from Tokyo, will meet Russian Natalia Pudova. Nonoka Ozaki, bronze medalist from the Paris Olympics, will face Russian Alina Kasabieva.

Exclusion of Russian Athletes from Olympic Competitions

The International Ski Federation (FIS) voted against allowing Russians and Belarusians to participate in Olympic qualifying competitions. According to FIS, Russian and Belarusian athletes are not allowed to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Milan. This decision was made to avoid supporting Russian aggression and occupation.

The Professional Wrestling League tournament in Moscow will determine winners with the participation of Japanese and Russian wrestlers. The International Ski Federation decided to exclude Russian and Belarusian athletes from Olympic competitions to prevent support for aggression and occupation.