Vito Arujau, the 2023 World champion, announced on Friday that he would not be participating in the upcoming 2024 Olympic Wrestling Trials. Arujau made this decision public through his social media platforms.
Despite having a standout season in 2023, where he claimed his first NCAA title by defeating Daton Fix and Roman Bravo-Young, both formidable opponents. Following this success, Arujau secured a spot on his first senior world team at 61 kg and went on to win a gold medal at the 2023 world championships.
However, Arujau faced challenges due to an undisclosed injury that caused him to miss several matches in the following season. Additionally, a weight cut down to 57 kg (8 pounds below his college weight) has further impacted his ability to compete at the Olympic Trials scheduled for next weekend. Despite these challenges, Arujau had expressed his intention to compete in the trials and try to secure a spot on the US Olympic team for Paris 2024. However, after careful consideration and consultation with medical professionals, he has decided not to participate in the trials.
