Henry Cejudo with a copy of his new book during a signing at Borders in Colorado Springs. Ryan Johnson photo

Olympic gold medalist Henry Cejudo returned to Colorado Springs, Colo., on the second stop of his book release tour on Saturday.

The Borders bookstore at the Southgate Shopping Center welcomed the former Colorado Springs resident Cejudo, who was on-site promoting his new book American Victory. Cejudo kicked off his book-signing tour earlier this week in Phoenix, Ariz., one of his other hometowns.

While signing copies for fans and old friends, Henry shared his feelings about the new book and its openness in regards to details about his challenging life story.

Henry's mother was in attendance, but has not had a chance to read the book. Henry laughingly claimed he may be receiving "a couple spankings" after she does.

Along with Henry's mother, a large number of Henry's family came out for the afternoon, including older brother Angel, who is also a world-class wrestler. Angel has joined the Army World Class Athlete Program and will return to the mat in a few weeks. Angel is stationed at nearby Fort Carson. 

Angel praised American Victory for its ability to inspire. Angel remembers Henry telling him about seeing the Statue of Liberty after he qualified for the Olympics.

"Henry was so proud to be an American," said Angel. "I really enjoy all of the exposure that Henry's book is bringing to the sport of wrestling across the country"

Henry has developed a wide network of followers in the local wrestling community. He won two Colorado state high school titles for Coronado High School, and trained at the U.S. Olympic Training Center leading up to his Olympic triumph.

Steve Delory was waiting in line for an autograph as a present to his son, who could not attend. Delory's son was wrestling for Air Academy High School in Pagosa Springs today. 

Anthony "AJ" Rees, who wrestles for Discovery Canyon High School, came with his family to shake hands with the Cejudo family. 

Both Delory and Rees have attended the Cejudo brothers wrestling camps and were excited about the chance to visit with him again.

Henry was also reunited with fellow 2008 Olympians Andy Hrovat and T.C. Dantzler, who came to show their support for their teammate from the Beijing Olympics. Also in attendance were National Freestyle Coaches Brandon Slay and Bill Zadick. Slay won an Olympic gold medal and Zadick was a World champion.

"Henry is an example of the possibility of success if you attack any goal with focus and commitment," said Zadick, who trained regularly with Cejudo during his Olympic run.

Also attending the signing were Charlie Hubner, Chief Executive for USA Paralympics, and Dr. Kristen Kells of Freedom Chiropractic, which is affiliated with USAW sponsor Maximized Living. Henry was so delighted to see Dr. Kells that he even took a couple minutes away from signing autographs for a quick spinal adjustment.

After signing copies of American Victory for over 90 minutes, Henry sat down with USA Wrestling Director of Development Larry Nugent for an interview. Cejudo discussed the importance of giving back to sport both financially and inspirationally through his new book. 

In the interview, Cejudo spoke about his childhood, about growing up in poverty, and how excited he was when he first came to the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. He explained that for the first time in his life he had his own bed, pillow, and yes, even his own clothing hangers. 

The book signing was Cejudo's second appearance of the day in his adopted hometown. In the morning, he signed autographs and met with hundreds of youth wrestlers at a large kids tournament held at nearby Cheyenne Mountain High School. During both of his appearances, Cejudo also conducted interviews with local television stations. 

Cejudo's message today was his hope that his book can inspire future generations of wrestlers to excel and achieve their dreams.

"It's a happy, difficult life," he said.

VIDEO: Henry Cejudo interview