Olympic Silver Medalist Magomedhabib Kadimagomedov Emerges as 86kg Contender

The 2025 Hungarian Ranking Series brought another major shift in the global freestyle wrestling landscape. Iran’s Ali Savadkouhi, competing as the country’s only representative in the final three freestyle weight categories, showcased a dominant run—until he faced a surprise challenger in the semifinals: Olympic silver medalist Magomedhabib Kadimagomedov.

Savadkouhi defeated Hungary’s Patrick Pusposviki (8–3), Georgia’s Tariel Gafrindashvili (10–0), and France’s Rahim Magamadov (5–0) to reach the semifinals. There, he was stunned by Kadimagomedov, who pinned him to secure a place in the finals.

Kadimagomedov, who won silver at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in the 74kg category, had faced multiple setbacks including a doping-related controversy and a last-minute clearance for the Paris Olympics, where he fell short. Following the Games, he announced his move up two weight classes to 86kg—and now, his performance in Hungary confirms he’s not just adjusting, but contending.

Although he didn’t wrestle in the final due to injury, his place in the 86kg elite now seems secure. The title eventually went to Azerbaijan’s Dzhiev, who had previously dominated Turkey’s Goken 10–0 in the semifinal.

Elsewhere in the tournament:

• 74kg Gold: Japanese star Kota Takahashi emerged victorious, defeating Azerbaijan’s Magomed Khaniev 4–0 in the final. Earlier, Takahashi edged American David Carr 9–7, while Khaniev beat Russia-Bahrain’s Asluev 4–2.

• 92kg Gold: American Trent Hidlay won the title with a commanding 7–2 victory over Georgia’s Mirani Maisuradze. Greek wrestler Dauren Kurugliev, who faced Hidlay in the semifinals, had to withdraw due to injury.

Kadimagomedov’s rise at 86kg is now a headline development ahead of the World Championships. With his Olympic pedigree and fresh motivation, the 86kg category just got significantly more competitive.