Soviet coach explains Dagestani wrestling success through Ruslan Ashuraliiev example

Yuri Shakhmuradov, longtime head coach of the Soviet national team, explained the phenomenon of Dagestani wrestlers by pointing to the example of Ruslan Ashuraliiev, the 1974 and 1975 world champion. Shakhmuradov described how pioneers like Ali Aliev (five-time world champion) and Zagalav Abdulbekov (Olympic champion) established the tradition that Dagestanis are capable of consistent elite success. He emphasized that hard work forms the foundation, citing Ashuraliiev's extreme training regimen including solo 28-kilometer runs from Makhachkala to the airport at 8 AM. According to Shakhmuradov, no one ran better than Ashuraliiev, and the ability to endure suffering represents the greatest characteristic of Dagestani wrestlers. At the 2026 European Championship, Dagestani wrestlers won six gold medals, continuing this tradition.