A global union representing 85,000 athletes on Tuesday called for Iran's expulsion from world sport if it executes champion wrestler Navid Afkari whose case has stirred outcry.

Navid Afkari had received 2 death sentences, 6 years and 6 months in prison, and 74 lashes. His brother, Vahid Afkari, was sentenced to 54 years and 6 months in prison and 74 lashes. Habib, the other brother, was sentenced to 27 years and 3 months in prison and 74 lashes. They have been charged with stabbing a government employee during the anti-regime protests in 2018.

According to Navid Afkari, he and his brothers were severely tortured to give confessions, and the testimony of witnesses about their beatings and torture are even referenced in the case, but the court has ignored it. Their attorney has stated that there is no evidence for the crime.

“The horrific act of executing an athlete can only be regarded as a repudiation of the humanitarian values that underpin sport," said World Players Association (WPA) director Brendan Schwab in a statement. “It must result in Iran forfeiting its right to be a part of sport's universal community."

The WPA statement continues: “He has been unjustly targeted by the Iranian authorities who want to make an example out of a popular, high-profile athlete and intimidate others who might dare exercise their human right to participate in a peaceful protest."

In recent days, many human rights groups, athletes, political figures, and even President Trump have urged the regime of Iran for a reprieve while Iranians on social media have started a campaign to save his life with the hashtag #SaveNavidAfkari.

Schwab said global sporting bodies such as the International Olympic Committee and FIFA should use their leverage to pressure Iran on behalf of Afkari.