Anti-Doping

UWW Bans Modzmanashvili After Re-Analysis of London Sample

By United World Wrestling Press

CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (November 10) -- United World Wrestling announced that Davit MODZMANASHVILI (UZB) has been banned until October 2, 2026, following the re-analysis of his sample from the 2012 London Olympics.

Modzmanashvili, who has competed for Uzbekistan since 2017, tested positive for the prohibited substance dehydrochlormethyltestosterone (oral turinabol).

Modzmanashvili claimed a silver medal in freestyle wrestling at 120kg and his removal re-shuffled the order of medalists at the 2012 London Games. Bilyal MAKHOV (RUS) became the new silver medalist and Daulet SHABANAY (KAZ) the bronze medalist.
 

Development

Guatemala plays host to 2024 Educators' Course

By United World Wrestling Press

PETEN, Guatemala (November 20) — Nestled in the depths of the ancient Mayan Empire, Peten, Guatemala, served as the 2024 Educators' Course host city. This event brought together 11 educators, including three referees and eight coaches, all hailing from Latin America. The course was held on November 11–12 to equip participants with tools to enhance their professional education practice.

Throughout the course, participants engaged in various activities designed to deepen their understanding of adult learning principles, using formative assessments, effective feedback strategies, and integrating new technologies as valuable educational tools. Beyond listening to lectures, educators actively participated in practical micro-leadership activities, teaching their peers topics from the UWW education program.

Vincent AKA (CIV) and Zach ERRET (USA) delivered the training, with support from Yuri MAIER (ARG) and the presence of Deqa NIAMKEY, Director of Development at United World Wrestling.

As an added cultural experience, the educators visited the Tikal National Park, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of the ancient Mayan civilization. They also stayed at a hotel nestled in the heart of the Central American jungle, fostering team dynamics and strengthening bonds among the participants. This camaraderie lays a strong foundation for collaboration during future courses they will deliver.

Notably, of the 11 participants, seven had prior experience as educators. The new additions to the program showcased impressive aptitude and readiness to embrace this new challenge, particularly as they prepare for the upcoming Olympic cycle leading to Los Angeles 2028.

Mr. Francisco LEE LOPEZ and his team coordinated the course and ensured its success. Mr. LEE also addressed the participants, extending a warm welcome, expressing gratitude, and commending their dedication to advancing the development of wrestling in the region.

This enriching experience elevated the educators’ professional capacities and underscored their vital role in shaping the future of wrestling education in Latin America.