Yuri Shakhmuradov explains Dagestani wrestling success through extreme work ethic

Longtime USSR national team head coach Yuri Shakhmuradov discussed the phenomenon of Dagestani wrestlers, using five-time world champion Ruslan Ashuralieyv as an example. Shakhmuradov explained that early success by Ali Aliyev and Zagalav Abdulbekov established a tradition showing Dagestanis were capable of repeated world-class achievements. He emphasized that extreme work ethic was the foundation, citing Ashuralieyv's training regimen including solo 28-kilometer runs from Makhachkala to the airport at 8 AM. Shakhmuradov stated that the ability to endure is the biggest factor in Dagestani wrestlers' success. At the 2026 European Championships, Dagestani wrestlers won six gold medals, continuing this tradition of excellence.