India’s star wrestler Bajrang Punia won the gold at the Dan Kolov-Nikola Petrov tournament in Ruse, Bulgaria on Saturday and dedicated the victory to Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman.

Punia, a World Championship silver medallist, overpowered Jordan Oliver of the U.S. 12-3 in the 65kg freestyle final to begin the season on a resounding note. The Indian also secured the maximum ranking points from the tournament.

“I want to dedicate my gold to Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman. He has inspired me. I want to meet him one day and also shake hands with him,” Punia tweeted after his victory.

Punia, who bagged the top prize at the Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games last year, has won four gold medals and one silver in the last five tournaments.

This was Punia’s 10th medal in as many international tournaments since failing to finish on the podium in the 2017 World Championships in Paris.

Earlier, Pooja Dhanda claimed the gold in 59kg beating compatriot Sarita Mor, while Sakshi Malik won silver in the 65kg freestyle. Sandeep Tomar had to be content with silver in the 61kg freestyle event.