American Wrestler Grigor Cholakian to Represent Armenia

California freestyle wrestling champion Grigor Cholakian, one of the most promising young athletes in the United States, will officially represent the Armenian national team at the upcoming U23 World Championships, which will take place from October 20–27 in Novi Sad, Serbia.

Cholakyan’s name has already appeared with the Armenian flag on the official United World Wrestling (UWW) website, confirming his registration for Team Armenia in the 74 kg weight class.

Grigor Cholakian (armenianweekly):
“I consider it my duty to represent my Armenian culture at events because it’s part of my identity. There is power in being Armenian. Representing a nation that has persevered throughout its history gives me strength.”

Grigor Cholakian  was born and raised in Burbank, California, in an Armenian family. He is a graduate of St. John Bosco High School and has received a full athletic scholarship to Stanford University.

Throughout his career, Cholakyan has achieved impressive success:

• California State Champion (2024)

• Fargo 2023 Freestyle Finalist

• Five-time Fargo All-American

• Two-time Reno Tournament of Champions winner and Outstanding Wrestler titleholder

• Medalist at prestigious tournaments such as Super 32, Doc B, and Journeyman Fall Classic

According to MatScouts, he ranks #5 among U.S. wrestlers and is listed among the top 40 high school graduates in the nation.

The U23 World Championships in Novi Sad will mark Grigor’s first major international tournament representing Team Armenia.