Chandigarh, November 27: Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist Bajrang Punia has been banned from wrestling for four years by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) for refusing to provide a urine sample during doping tests at the national team selection trials on March 10, 2024.
The ban bars Punia from participating in any wrestling competitions, domestic or international, until 2028. NADA cited a violation of Anti-Doping Rule 2.3 as the reason for the penalty. Following the incident, Punia was provisionally suspended on April 23, and the World Wrestling Federation (UWW) also upheld the suspension.
Bajrang, born in Haryana’s Jhajjar district, has been a trailblazer in Indian wrestling, winning four World Championship medals and earning a bronze at the Tokyo Olympics. However, his career has recently been overshadowed by controversies and statements that have kept him in the headlines.
The wrestler, whose net worth is reportedly ₹15 crore, earns through sponsorships, advertising, and government salary. His rise and fall in the sport remain a compelling story of triumph and controversy.
