Aleksandr Tarakanov: “We have a young and promising team”

The Greco-Roman wrestling team, which achieved remarkable success at the U23 World Championships in Novi Sad, Serbia, has returned home.

Having set a new record with two gold and one bronze medal and finishing third in the team standings, the wrestlers were welcomed with a ceremony at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

Aleksandr Tarakanov, Head coach:
“First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to the leadership of the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the National Olympic Committee for their support during our preparation for the tournament. Domestic and international training camps, along with the competitions we participated in, greatly improved our wrestlers’ readiness. We have a young and promising team. This championship proved that these young athletes are capable of representing our country successfully at senior-level competitions in the future.”

Elmir Aliyev, World champion:
“I want to thank everyone who supported us. It was my first time competing at the U23 World Championships. Earlier this year, I lost to a Russian wrestler at the European Championships due to a momentary mistake, but I took my revenge at this tournament. Thanks be to God. Hopefully, I will follow in Eldeniz Azizli’s footsteps at the senior level.”

Ziya Babashov, World champion:
“I’m proud to finish my U23 career as a world champion. It’s an incredible feeling to have our national anthem played. This success comes from our preparation—we trained at a very high level and I believed in my victory. I dedicate this win to the Azerbaijani Army and our martyrs.”

Ruslan Nurullayev, World bronze medalist:
“The tournament was held at a very high level. Although I had to miss part of the training process due to military service, I still believe I prepared well for this championship. I’m grateful to our federation for providing us with great conditions. Despite losing to my Iranian opponent, the coaches motivated me strongly, especially before my bronze medal match against the Armenian wrestler. Earlier this year, I became the U23 European Champion. I wanted to win gold here too, but it wasn’t meant to be. I’m confident that next year I will replace this bronze with gold. I serve in the State Border Service, and I dedicate this medal to my fellow soldiers.”