Obituary

Vadim Psarev, Hall of Fame Greco-Roman Coach, Dies at 86

By United World Wrestling Press

ALMATY, Kazakhstan (January 14) -- Legendary Greco-roman wrestling coach Vadim PSAREV passed away Saturday, January 12 in Almaty, Kazakhstan. He was 86.

During his long career, Psarev coached five Olympic medalists, including three Olympic gold medals. The native Russian also coached 12 gold medalists at World Championships and World Cups. 

Psarev was recognized by United World Wrestling in 2014 with his selection to the organization's Hall of Fame. He was also awarded as an "Honored Coach of USSR" (1969) for his work with the USSR in the 40's, 50's and 60's. 

Psarev later became the head Greco-Roman coach for the Kazakhstan national team head coach and was later given the title of "Honored Coach of Kazakhstan."

A farewell ceremony for Psarev will be held on January 15 at 10am in the sports complex "Dostyk" at 48 Abay Avenue, Almaty.

Famous Wrestlers Under Psarev

Ushkempirov, Zhaksylyk (1951) - champion and medalist of the USSR Championships, medalist of the European Championships, World Championships and Olympic Games, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

Bakulin Vladimir (1939–2012) - prize-winner of the USSR Championships, European and World Championships, Olympic Games prize-winner, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

Detsiev Bisolt (1964) - champion of the USSR and Europe, winner of the USSR Cup and the world Cup,Asian Championship medallist.

Nazarenko Anatoly (1948) - champion and medalist of the USSR, Europe and World Championships, Olympic medalist, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

Rezantsev Valery (1946) - champion of the USSR, Europe, the world, the Olympic Games, Honored Master of Sports of the USSR.

#UnitedWorldWrestling

Five-time Olympic champ Lopez named UWW Ambassador

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (June 13) -- United World Wrestling has named Mijain LOPEZ (CUB), five-time Olympic gold medalist, as UWW ambassador.

Lopez, first athlete to win five Olympic gold medals in the same event, will be representing United World Wrestling (UWW) globally as an ambassador of the sport. This includes engaging in international relations, attending official events and championships, delivering masterclasses, and more.

“I’m thrilled to take on this new role as a UWW Ambassador and share my passion for wrestling across the globe," Lopez said. "I’m committed to giving back and inspiring future generations.

"My son has taken up wrestling and is following in my footsteps, so it feels only natural to embrace this role and contribute on a broader level. I’m also actively involved in supporting the training of the Cuban national team as I transition into this new chapter."

Lopez will also serve as an advisor to the UWW President and Bureau, offering strategic input on the future of wrestling and supporting various development projects.

Recently, Lopez attended the International Olympic Committee Athlete Forum in Lausanne organized by the IOC and spent two days at the UWW Headquarters along with UWW Athletes Commission Chair Arsen JULFALAKYAN (ARG).