Legendary coach Yuri Shakhmuradov explains Dagestani wrestling dominance

Yuri Shakhmuradov, long-time head coach of the USSR national wrestling team, discussed the phenomenon of Dagestani wrestlers in an interview, using Ruslan Ashuralieyv (1974 and 1975 world champion) as an example. Shakhmuradov explained that after Ali Aliev won five world titles and Zagalav Abdulbekov won Olympic gold, it established a tradition showing Dagestanis were capable of consistent success. He emphasized that the foundation was built on extraordinary work ethic and the ability to endure extreme training loads. As an example, he described Ashuralieyv running 28 kilometers alone from Makhachkala to the airport at 8am as part of his regular training. Shakhmuradov stated that the ability to endure hardship is the biggest factor in the phenomenon of Dagestani wrestlers. At the 2026 European Championships, Dagestani wrestlers won six gold medals.