KRANOYARSK, Russia -- For many years, the Ivan Yariguin Grand Prix has been the most prominent Open freestyle tournament in the world. Now, decades after the United States began attending this prestigious event, the U.S. has a three-time Yariguin champion.
2018 World bronze medalist Tamyra Mensah-Stock (Colorado Springs, Colo./Titan Mercury WC) calmly stepped on the raised mat in the Yariguin Grand Prix finals for the third straight year. Her opponent in the 72 kg finals was one of the top young stars from the World champion Japanese team, two-time cadet world champion Yuka Kagami.
Mensah-Stock struck first, scoring a takedown for a 2-0 lead. She got in on another leg attack, and after a slight scramble, came out on top, forcing Kagami to her back near the edge of the mat.
Kagami fought hard, trying to get off her back, but Mensah-Stock had most of the period and patiently adjusted the hold until the referees slapped the mat at the 2:43 mark. With a big smile on her face, Mensah-Stock had her hand raised in victory as she made American wrestling history.
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