Rulon Gardner (born August 16, 1971) is an American Olympian who competed in the 2000 Olympic games, winning the gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling upon defeating Russian Aleksandr Karelin, who was previously undefeated in 13 years of international competition. It was also the first Olympic gold medal won by an American Greco-Roman wrestler in a full international field.Gardner was also a contestant on the 11th season of the Biggest Loser.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Brigham Young University–Idaho, Star Valley High School
Nationality
American
Spouse
Kamie Gardner
Awards
James E. Sullivan Award, Best Male U.S. Olympic Athlete ESPY Award
Nominations
Milliyet Sports Award for World Athlete of the Year, Best Breakthrough Athlete ESPY Award, Best Comeback Athlete ESPY Award, Memorable Performance of the Year ESPY Award
Movies
The R.M.
Star Sign
Leo
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Fact
1
A contestant in Pride Fighting Championships. [October 2004]
2
Inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2010.
3
Three-time US national champion in 1995, 1997, and 2001.
4
2004 Olympic bronze medalist.
5
The 2000 Olympic Gold Medalist Greco-Roman wrestling (120kg division), defeating Aleksandr Karelin of Russia. Prior to this loss, Karelin had not lost a match in 13 years and had not allowed a point to an opponent in 6 years.