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The most prestigious wrestling competition of this year, the 2023 Bill Farrell Memorial International, is here with Josh Rodriguez as a worthy contender. The Guadalupe native had made his mark mostly in the 61-kilogram division. Be it at the US Open or the Pan American Championships, Rodriguez proved his finesse. However, this time, his Bill Farrell entry differs from the rest.

The United World Wrestling sanctioned Bill Farrell International, has crossed the 60-year mark. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most popular wrestling events in North America. As the gateway to the Olympics, the competition is awaiting participants from around the world. Josh Rodriguez, one of the champions in the wrestling realm, has some weight-loss updates now.

Bill Farrell International contender Rodriguez’s weight drop

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The popular Titan Mercury Wrestling Club has taken to their Instagram handle to post the news. In the caption, they wrote, “@_joshrodriguez_ drops down to MFS 57kg to kick off his season at the 2023 Bill Farrell International this Saturday, November 18th US.” It’s a two-day event, but Rodriguez has girded up for a second day’s entry.

They further added, “The @nittanylionwc athlete and former U.S. Open finalist will pursue his Olympic dreams at the #billfarrellinternational at the @newyorkac this weekend. Watch Josh and 40+ TMWC wrestlers compete at the Bill Farrell, this weekend Nov 17-18th. Catch all the action live on @flowrestling starting 11/17 at 7am PT/10am ET. Let’s go Josh! #stayhungryformore.”

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The perils of extreme weight cutting in wrestling

Usually scheduled for the month of November, the elite wrestlers have started being mindful of the weight categories. In wrestling, athletes tend to lose weight to enhance their competitiveness in a lower-weight category. As exciting as it sounds, coming under proper fasting, calorie restrictions, and heavy exercises can be intimidating. However, according to statistics, almost 25% to 65% of wrestlers resort to this method to win bouts easily.

READ MORE: After Dwayne Johnson’s Recent 72 Hours Sleepless Cycle, What Does a Regular Day in His Life Look Like?

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Having said that, the smart Nittany Lion Wrestling Club’s young athlete has some golds in his wall of fame. Now, as the Olympic qualifier, Bill Farrell International nears, the North American native wishes to stand atop his game again. Competitors don’t matter to him as long as his confidence is intact.

Watch this story: Despite Being in His Heart, Dwayne Johnson Reveals Big Reason to Choose NFL Over Wrestling, Years Before the Same Sport Saved His Life