Jordan Burroughs

The difference between the greats and the legends is their ability to focus for longer periods of time.

I love kids - they're so carefree and always put a smile on my face.

For Americans, of course, it's football, basketball, and baseball. We live for it. In many ways, it sums up who we are. In Iran, it's all about wrestling. The patriotism toward their country comes out in the way they wrestle, so it makes sense why they're the best.

I listen to a lot of TED talks and motivational speakers.

I've become close with Masoud Esmaeilpour and consider him a friend. We send each other messages from time to time on Instagram, checking in to see how the other is doing. Whenever I see him, he's always a gentleman, giving me tips about my next opponent. There is a tremendous amount of respect in our friendship.

Anything less than gold is a failure to me. It's extreme pressure, but I hold myself to a high standard.

It's harder to be a dad than an Olympic champion.

A lot of guys get out of wrestling immediately after winning a gold medal. Every time another Olympics comes around, it's always a bunch of fresh faces. For me, to win an Olympic gold and have a chance to win another would be huge for our sport.