American Olympic champion Burroughs commiserates with Iran quake victims

American world and Olympic champion Jordan Ernest Burroughs has extended his heartfelt sympathy with families stricken in recent earthquake in the western part of Iran, which has left at least 500 people dead, hundreds of others injured and dozens of villages destroyed.

The quake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale rattled the border region between Iran and Iraq on Sunday night, causing extensive damage and loss of life.

According to the latest figures, at least 436 people have lost their lives and 9,388 others sustained injuries in the earthquake. More than 12,000 homes have also been completely destroyed in the incident.

“I convey my sincere condolences to Kermanshah residents and the entire Iranian nation. I share your sorrow. I want you to know we are all thinking about you, and sympathize with you in the aftermath of the earthquake,” he wrote in his Persian message.

Burroughs added, “Kermanshah was a memorable city for me during the 2017 Freestyle World Cup. I was so delighted to be there and to meet hospitable people, who adore wrestling as well.”

“My family and I got very upset when we heard about the bitter incident. We pray for you and wish the situation will improve sooner; and beautiful Kermanshah will be reconstructed again. I look forward to traveling to Iran in the future. My family and I have the best wishes for you,” the American freestyle wrestler pointed out.

On February 17, Burroughs went to great pains to clinch a narrow 3-2 victory over Iranian rival Peyman Yarahmadi in the 74-kilogram class of the 2017 Freestyle World Cup.

The tournament kicked off in Kermanshah, western Iran, on February 16 and wrapped up the next day.

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