Naples, Italy – (July 9, 2019)

USA Team began the first of five days of sparring competition. Twelve total weight classes in both men’s and women’s divisions will be contested over a four day stretch, followed by men’s and women’s team sparring on its closing day.

Opening the day was Charles Buset (-68kg) versus Dias Kurmangazy (KAZ).  In a close match full of lead changes, Buset finished down 15-19.

Starla Santana (-57kg) in the round of 32 faced off against Anna Antoniou (CYP).  The match was tied 2-2 entering the final two minute round, Antoniou was able to outscore Santana in the 3rd round and earned and the match ended 3-11.

Connor Wilson (-80kg) opened against Artur Bajmatov (RUS) to begin the match.  A close bout featuring an early lead by Wilson on a head kick, but Bajmatov was able to extend the lead for a 11-22 win.

USA Team will be sending three more athletes to the venue for Day 2 of sparring. Live stream available at www.fisu.net to view Alejandro Bravo (-58kg), Lizette Salas (49kg) and Cheyenne Lewis (-67kg). Lewis was the 2018 Pan Am Championships Champion at -62kg. It is the first World University Games for all 3 players.

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