Ibragimov Emerges, Kadzhimagomedov Falls Short Again at 65 kg
Abasgadzhi Magomedov, world champion and runner-up at 61 kg, once again failed to conquer the highly competitive Olympic weight of 65 kg. Despite an intense effort at the recent Russian National Championships and a solid run to the final, Magomedov came up short—just as he did during the Russian Olympic trials, where he was stopped by Shamil Mamedov. This time, it was another rising force who stood in his way: Ibragim Ibragimov.
Ibragimov: A Name to Remember
In what was one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament, Ibragim Ibragimov delivered a composed and technical performance to defeat Magomedov 7–5 in the 65 kg final. He not only executed clean attacks but also defended skillfully, refusing to concede positions. Wrestling with precision across all areas of the mat, Ibragimov proved that he is not just a breakout star but a serious contender for the 2025 World Championships in Zagreb.
In a weight class that continues to be one of the most stacked in freestyle wrestling, Ibragimov’s rise marks a significant shift in the Russian depth chart at 65 kg.
Zagreb 2025: A Clash of Titans at 65 kg
The road to gold at 65 kg in Zagreb will be anything but easy. Kotaro Kiyooka, who defeated Iran’s Rahman Amouzad in the Paris Olympic final, has already locked in his spot for the World Championships after winning Japan’s recent team trials. The reigning Olympic champion is eyeing another global title.
Meanwhile, despite rumors that Amouzad might move up in weight following the Olympics—due to the significant cut he undergoes to make 65 kg—he has opted to stay put. Amouzad, who owns a 2022 World Championship gold and an Olympic silver from Paris 2024, was one of the first wrestlers to confirm his place at Zagreb 2025, once again at 65 kg.
Stacked Field, Rising Stars, Familiar Faces
With heavy hitters like Kiyooka and Amouzad returning, and new names like Ibragimov shaking up the Russian lineup, the 65 kg category remains one of the most intense and talent-rich divisions in all of wrestling.
The battle for supremacy in Zagreb will be a true war of generations, styles, and strategies—and Ibragimov just made it clear: he's coming for it all.