Wrestler Offers $1,000 Takedown Challenge, Denies Ever Being Taken Down Despite Viral Footage.
Social media wrestling sensation Georgio Poullas remains adamant that no one has ever successfully taken him down in his widely publicized $1,000 challenge—despite mounting video evidence suggesting otherwise.
During a recent appearance on Marlon “Chito” Vera’s podcast, Poullas doubled down on his claim.
“I literally haven’t been taken down,” he stated confidently. “People in my comments keep saying, ‘Oh, he just doesn’t post when he gets taken down.’ I’m like, bro, I literally haven’t been taken down.”
However, wrestling fans are calling that statement into question. A recently circulated clip features a challenger named Joseph executing what appears to be a foot sweep, momentarily putting Poullas on his back before he quickly recovered with a hip heist.
“If I were reffing, I’d call it a takedown followed by a reversal,” one wrestling fan commented online. “Joseph clearly foot swept Georgio to his back, and Georgio had to scramble to get out of it.”
This latest development has fueled debate in combat sports circles, particularly regarding what constitutes a takedown within the context of Poullas’ high-stakes challenge. Some have pointed out that the footage includes quick edits, making it difficult to determine whether the takedown was fully established.
Even UFC bantamweight contender Marlon Vera weighed in during the podcast, acknowledging Poullas’ wrestling prowess.
“I don’t think I can take you down,” Vera admitted. “I mean, maybe if I dive under for a leg and go for a heel hook, but in straight wrestling? No chance.”
Georgio Poullas has established himself as a formidable wrestler, with notable achievements throughout his high school and collegiate career.
High School Career:
At Canfield High School in Ohio, Poullas compiled an impressive 176-15 record, making him the school’s all-time wins leader. He was a four-time state placer and clinched the state championship at 152 pounds during his junior year. His senior year saw him reach the state finals at 160 pounds, where he narrowly lost in overtime. Additionally, he won the prestigious Ironman Tournament, one of the nation’s most challenging high school wrestling competitions.
Collegiate Career:
Poullas continued his wrestling journey at Cleveland State University, competing primarily in the 157 and 165-pound weight classes. During his freshman season (2017-2018), he started in 11 of the team’s 13 dual matches and placed fourth at the Eastern Wrestling League (EWL) Championships. He secured 12 victories while representing CSU and achieved a third-place finish at the Eastern Michigan University Open in the Freshman/Sophomore Division at 157 pounds.
In the 2018-2019 season, Poullas continued to compete in various tournaments, showcasing his skills against diverse opponents. His performances during this period are documented on platforms like FloWrestling, which detail his match outcomes and participation in events such as the JCU Open and the Lock Haven Classic.
Post-Collegiate Activities:
Beyond traditional wrestling platforms, Poullas has gained attention on social media for his “Take me down, win $1,000” challenge, where he invites individuals to attempt to take him down for a cash prize. This challenge has further highlighted his wrestling prowess and competitive spirit.
A former state champion, Poullas continues to gain traction with his viral challenge, sparking ongoing discussion in the combat sports community. Whether he truly remains undefeated in his takedown challenge or not, one thing is clear—he’s keeping fans talking.
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