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Rulon Gardner Speaker & Booking Information

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Rulon Gardner
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Rulon Gardner

He defeated Alexander Karelin who had not lost in thirteen years to win the 2000 Olympic Gold Medal in Greco-Roman wrestling

Rulon Ellis Gardner is a celebrated figure in the world of Greco-Roman wrestling, known for his incredible achievements on the international stage. Born on August 16, 1971, Gardner grew up in Wyoming, where he developed a passion for wrestling that would eventually lead him to Olympic glory. His most famous moment came during the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, where he pulled off one of the greatest upsets in wrestling history by defeating Russia's Aleksandr Karelin in the final. Karelin, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, had been unbeaten for 13 years in international competition, making Gardner's victory a monumental achievement in the sport.

Gardner's triumph over Karelin not only earned him the gold medal but also solidified his place in wrestling history. His victory was a testament to his perseverance, strength, and tactical brilliance, as he managed to outlast one of the most dominant athletes the sport had ever seen. Gardner's success continued beyond the 2000 Olympics, as he went on to win a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, further cementing his legacy as one of the top Greco-Roman wrestlers of his era.

In addition to his Olympic success, Gardner has been recognized for his contributions to the sport of wrestling. In 2010, he was inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Member, an honor that reflects his impact on the sport both in the United States and internationally. His story of overcoming adversity, including surviving a near-fatal snowmobile accident in 2002, has made him a source of inspiration for athletes and non-athletes alike.

Gardner's journey from a small-town wrestler to an Olympic champion is a story of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. His achievements on the mat, combined with his personal story of survival and perseverance, have made him a sought-after motivational speaker. "Contact Rulon Gardner speaker booking agent Direct Sportslink for Rulon Gardner speaker and appearance fees and to find other similar sports celebrity motivational speakers for your event.

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