Two-time Olympic wrestling champion Abdulrashid Sadulaev has won the European Championship for the first time since 2020. This marks a significant return to continental championship form for the Russian freestyle wrestler. In addition to Sadulaev's gold medal, Ahmed Usmanov and David Baev also captured gold medals at the same championship. The post indicates this is a notable achievement given the four-year gap since his last European title. Further details about the competition or weight class were not provided in the brief announcement.
Abdulrashid Sadulaev claimed the European Wrestling Championship gold medal in April 2026, ending a six-year wait for continental glory that stretched back to his last title at the 2020 edition of the tournament.
The Russian freestyle wrestler is one of the most decorated competitors in the sport, holding two Olympic gold medals and a reputation as a dominant force in international wrestling. His return to the top of the European podium signals that he remains a formidable presence at the elite level, despite the lengthy gap since his previous continental crown.
Sadulaev was not the only Russian to shine at the championship. Ahmed Usmanov and David Baev also captured gold medals, underlining the strength of the Russian freestyle wrestling contingent at the event.
Why it matters
- Sadulaev's victory ends a six-year absence from the European Championship podium's top spot, a significant milestone for the two-time Olympic champion.
- The haul of three gold medals for Russian freestyle wrestlers demonstrates continued depth in the national program.
- Sadulaev's return to continental form will draw attention ahead of future international competition cycles.
