"They have to roll up the sleeves and figure out how they can improve, " Dubi said.

WSJ: Wrestling Dropped From Olympics

Dubi cited changes that archery and fencing have made to make their competitions more appealing and viable in the modern Olympics.

WSJ: Wrestling Dropped From Olympics

Dubi said the task now for wrestling is to figure out how to improve its presentation so that it can feel fresh.

WSJ: Wrestling Dropped From Olympics

"Wrestling has to look at everything they do and say, 'That's how we will change, '" said Dubi, who had to call FILA, the international wrestling federation, with the unwelcome news of the vote Tuesday afternoon.

WSJ: Wrestling Dropped From Olympics

Christophe Dubi, director of sport for the IOC, said the vote was part of a process that began in 2001 after Dr. Jacques Rogge took over as president of the organization and said he wanted to limit the size, cost and complexity of the Games.

WSJ: Wrestling Dropped From Olympics