Jordan Burroughs, the wrestling legend whose name has become synonymous with American excellence on the mat, just dropped a big surprise. This isn’t just about his incredible string of victories, an Olympic gold in 2012, six world championships, and a whopping nine World and Olympic medals; it’s about the man behind the medals. We all thought we knew his plan, especially after he hinted at retirement after the 2024 Olympics, a decision that felt final at the time. “No matter what,” he’d said, making it sound like a done deal.But just when fans thought they had a clear picture of his future, Burroughs has thrown a curveball that’s left the wrestling world reevaluating what’s next for the 74-kilogram powerhouse. Then came the twist. The wrestling community breathed a collective sigh of relief when he decided to hold off on those retirement plans, opting instead to continue his pursuit of glory. The 2024 Olympics didn’t go as planned.He was defeated by Jason Nolf in the US Olympic Team Trials. That fall felt hard, and Burroughs went onto the mat again in the World Wrestling Championship 2024 Tirana; however, he had to face defeat again. Again, he went off the grid. And now, after months of hiatus, Burroughs has revealed a new chapter in his story, one that involves stepping back from the competitive grind.“This has been the first year I’ve truly had a chance to hit pause,” Burroughs shared on FloWrestling Radio Live, his voice sounding like someone who’s taking stock of his life. “I need to consciously decide if I want to keep doing this, and I need to step back and get some things in order.” He clarified that this isn’t him quitting but rather a much-needed breath, driven by some very real, very human reasons.Why Jordan Burroughs (who is not retired) took this year off from competitionPresented by @AthletePS #FRL pic.twitter.com/EWAUIsUZ7y— FloWrestling (@FloWrestling) June 9, 2025“You know, I’ve got a big family, five little ones at home. Being on the road and training daily isn’t always good for them, having a present father,” he admitted, pulling back the curtain on the personal sacrifices that come with being an elite athlete. The decision also carries the weight of a recent, painful loss. “Secondarily, I lost my dad this year,” Burroughs revealed, giving a glimpse into the emotional turmoil he and his family have been navigating.“We were going through a lot of turmoil, trying to make sure his final days were as happy and restful as they could be.” And if that wasn’t enough, there was also the unexpected collapse of the Regional Training Center (RTC) in Philadelphia, adding to the instability. “Our RTC imploded here in Philadelphia. So much was happening that it was just really tough for me to get back into a routine with all that uncertainty around me,” he explained, painting a clear picture of the whirlwind his life has become.Even with this break, Jordan isn’t walking away from the sport entirely. “I just needed some time. I’m still on the mat a couple times a week, still training,” he reassured, making it clear this is more a reset than a retirement. For fans, it’s a powerful reminder that even the greatest among us need space to breathe and re-evaluate. But it also leaves everyone wondering: What does this mean for the incredible legacy of Jordan Burroughs and the future of American wrestling? Well, Burroughs will be seen in a new role soon.Jordan Burroughs was cast for the new roleJordan Burroughs, a name that is wrestling greatness, is officially stepping into a new kind of spotlight. And no, it’s not a wrestling mat this time. This year, the celebrated Olympic and World Champion is trading his competition gear for a microphone, joining the broadcast team as a color analyst for the men’s freestyle matches at Final X.This event, which is essentially where wrestling dreams are either made or broken, will now get the unique perspective of Burroughs’ deep understanding and his champion’s mentality. “Final X isn’t just another event—it’s where dreams become real and legacies are made,” Burroughs shared, his voice resonating with the weight of someone who has truly lived those words. “I’m honored to help tell these athletes’ stories from the analyst’s chair this time around.” This move is a big moment in Burroughs’ career, fitting perfectly with the ongoing impact he has on the sport. He won’t be alone in bringing his expertise; Victoria Anthony, a World Team member and a pioneering star in women’s freestyle, will be right there with him, offering her expert analysis for the women’s matches, ensuring a complete and insightful broadcast. But as Burroughs takes on this new role, it makes you wonder: how will his sharp analytical mind influence the way we see Final X unfold? And what does this new chapter mean for his incredible legacy, extending beyond the wrestling mat itself?The post Missing World Championships Following Forced Absence, Jordan Burroughs Makes Thoughts Known Over Wrestling Return appeared first on EssentiallySports.