Soviet wrestling coach explains Dagestani wrestling success through extreme training

Yuri Shakhmuradov, longtime head coach of the Soviet national wrestling team, explained the phenomenon of Dagestani wrestling dominance using the example of two-time world champion Ruslan Ashuralieyv from 1974-75. Shakhmuradov described how legendary wrestlers like Ali Aliev (five-time world champion) and Zagalav Abdulbekov (Olympic champion) established a tradition showing that Dagestani athletes could consistently achieve the highest levels. He emphasized that the foundation of their success was extraordinary work ethic and ability to endure extreme training loads. As an example, he described Ashuralieyv's training routine including solo 28-kilometer runs from Makhachkala to the airport at 8 AM, loads that seemed incomprehensible by modern standards. Shakhmuradov concluded that the ability to suffer and persevere through brutal training represents the greatest phenomenon of Dagestani wrestlers. At the 2026 European Championships, Dagestani wrestlers won six gold medals, continuing this tradition.