Former USSR coach explains Dagestani wrestling success through extreme work ethic

Yuri Shakhmuradov, longtime head coach of the USSR national team, discussed the phenomenon of Dagestani wrestlers using the example of Ruslan Ashuraliiev, a two-time world champion in 1974 and 1975. Shakhmuradov explained that the foundation was laid by champions like Ali Aliev, who won five world titles, and Zagalav Abdulbekov, an Olympic champion, showing that Dagestanis were capable of consistent excellence. He emphasized that extreme work ethic and the ability to endure were the biggest factors in Dagestani wrestling success. As an example, Shakhmuradov described how Ashuraliiev would run 28 kilometers alone from Makhachkala to the airport at 8 AM, doing training loads that seemed unbelievable. At the 2026 European Championship, Dagestani wrestlers won six gold medals, continuing this tradition of excellence.