The wrestling community is in mourning after the death of Buvaisar Saitiev, widely regarded as one of the greatest freestyle wrestlers ever. He passed away at the age of 49.
News of his death was initially reported by the Russian Wrestling Federation through Russian news agency TASS on Sunday. According to reports, Saitiev died in Moscow.
Details regarding the cause of death have not been released at this time.
Saitiev’s career was filled with incredible achievements. He won three Olympic gold medals and six World Championships in freestyle wrestling, solidifying his place as a legend in the sport.
Born in Dagestan, Saitiev moved to Siberia for training and quickly rose to prominence on the international wrestling scene. His first Olympic gold came at the 1996 Atlanta Games, where he dominated his opponents, including a victory over American wrestling icon Kenny Monday.
Despite a remarkable career, Saitiev experienced a setback at the 2000 Olympics, losing to American Brandon Slay. Slay later won gold after his final opponent was disqualified for steroid use.
Saitiev made a triumphant return at the 2004 Olympics, overpowering his competition and winning his second gold medal.
He continued his dominance at the 2008 Olympics, securing his third Olympic gold in another impressive performance.
Over a 13-year period competing in the Olympics and World Championships, Saitiev suffered only two defeats while winning an astounding nine gold medals.
Following the news of Saitiev’s death, tributes poured in, including from prominent figures in the MMA world. Retired UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev both expressed their condolences on Instagram.
Nurmagomedov wrote, “You inspired millions of children around the world and we will miss you,” offering his condolences to Saitiev’s family and loved ones.
Makhachev shared, “A legend is gone,” and extended his condolences to family and friends.
