Dan Gable, widely regarded as the most illustrious amateur wrestler in the annals of the sport, is inextricably linked with the world of wrestling.
Born in Waterloo, Iowa, Gable's affinity for wrestling began during his formative years, and he went on to dominate the high school circuit, claiming an impressive three Iowa High School championships.
His collegiate career at Iowa State University was equally remarkable, as he won two NCAA championships, cementing his status as a wrestling powerhouse.
However, Gable's collegiate career was not without its setbacks, as he suffered a loss in his final match in 1970. Undeterred by this setback, he went on to achieve unparalleled success just two years later, winning the gold medal in his weight class at the 1972 Munich Olympics.
What made Gable's Olympic triumph even more astonishing was his impressive record of not conceding a single point in any of his matches.
Following his retirement from competitive wrestling, Gable went on to forge a successful coaching career at the University of Iowa, guiding the team to numerous national championships.
Eventually, Gable hung up his coaching hat in 1997, bringing an end to an illustrious career that has left an indelible mark on the world of wrestling.