In a stunning turn of events, Olympic wrestling champion Kyle Snyder has been swept up in a prostitution sting operation in Columbus, Ohio.

The 29-year-old athlete, celebrated for his unmatched prowess on the wrestling mat, was arrested alongside over a dozen others during the police-led initiative aimed at curbing prostitution in the city. According to authorities, Snyder was apprehended in a hotel room after responding to an online ad and arranging to meet with an undercover officer.

Police spokesperson Caitlyn McIntosh revealed that undercover officers had set up the sting to "solicit others to engage in sexual activity for hire." Upon meeting at the hotel, Snyder allegedly paid for sexual services, which led to his immediate arrest. He was released on the scene but is expected to appear in court on May 19.

A Wrestling Legend's Rise and Fall

Snyder is not just any athlete—he's a wrestling phenomenon. A former star at Ohio State University, he clinched an Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games and further gained fame by winning three consecutive NCAA heavyweight titles from 2016 to 2018. His accolades also include an Olympic silver medal from the Tokyo Games and three world titles.

In 2018, he was even appointed by Donald Trump to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, showcasing his influence beyond just sports.

What's Next for Snyder?

This month, Snyder made headlines again by joining Hulk Hogan’s upcoming Real American Freestyle wrestling league, set to premiere in August. However, the recent arrest casts a shadow over his career and future endeavors.

As of now, neither Snyder, Ohio State University, nor the Real American Freestyle wrestling league has commented publicly on the shocking incident.