The first comment from Egyptian wrestler Kisho after being cleared of harassment charges

Kisho, the former Olympic champion, made his decision following public disputes with the sports administration in Egypt. In a televised statement on Al Ahly TV, he emphasized that he “has no problem with Egypt as a country,” noting that he “grew up there and raised its flag in many international forums,” but clarified that his issue is with the sports administration.

He added: “I asked the wrestling federation to prepare me well, and I went to the Olympic center but found it unavailable for training. My university was not an obstacle; I stayed there for 10 years because of my interest in sports.”

Kisho explained that his decision to move to America came after “being wronged throughout the past period,” saying: “I am already there, have started the naturalization procedures, and am not willing at all to listen to officials’ words again.”

When asked about international rules that prevent a player from representing a new country until 3 years after their last participation under their original country, he said: “Even if it takes 20 years, I will wait to prove to everyone that I was wronged.”

On his part, Saeed Salah, president of the Egyptian Wrestling Federation, commented on Kisho’s decision, confirming that the athlete will not be able to represent America in official competitions until 3 years have passed since his last participation under Egypt, according to the United World Wrestling (UWW) regulations.

Salah said in press statements: “It is difficult for Kisho to compete under the American flag before 3 years if he wishes to obtain a nationality other than Egyptian.”

He added: “The Egyptian Wrestling Federation will not grant Kisho any official approval to represent America in upcoming championships, in order to protect players’ rights and safeguard the national sports system.”

He explained that Kisho has only two options: “Either commit to representing the Egyptian national team or stop practicing the sport for 3 years to represent America or any other country.”

Mohamed Ibrahim “Kisho” is considered one of the most prominent stars of Egyptian wrestling in the last decade, after winning a rare Olympic medal for Egypt in this sport, making his decision widely followed by the Egyptian and Arab sports community.