FreestyleFriday: Team USA prepares for World Cup in Yakutsk, Russia

The 2019 U.S. Men’s Freestyle World Cup team traveled far to compete in this weekend’s event, which features eight of the best men’s freestyle wrestling teams on the planet. Team USA takes the mat in Yakutsk, Russia, Friday at 10 p.m. ET.

Before taking care of business, the squad had to travel multiple days, leaving the United States on Monday and arriving in Moscow, Russia, on Wednesday.

With an overnight layover in Moscow, Team USA and support staff visited the Red Square and worked out at a local hotel health club.

The travel was not done as the team had to continue the journey with a seven-hour flight to Yakutsk, which was another six-hour time difference to overcome.

To battle the jet lag, Team USA visited a diamond and history museum of Yakutia on Friday, where they saw an impressive display of diamonds and a little bit of the culture.

All the while, the squad has stayed motivated and trained hard in hopes of defending the USA’s 2018 World Cup title.

“The guys have done a great job in their preparation,” Manager of Freestyle Programs Joe Russell said. “They have been focused and look ready to take advantage of the opportunity.”

Fans can watch the 2019 World Cup live on Trackwrestling.com.

Team USA's coaches and support staff at the Red Square in Moscow, Russia. 

Team USA visits the Diamond and Mammoth Museum in Yakutsk, Russia. 

Team USA at the World Cup competition venue. 

One of the buses, transporting teams at the 2019 World Cup.

Technical meeting prior to competition.