In January 2026, the Russian Men’s Freestyle Wrestling Rankings showcased a series of significant matches and shake-ups across various weight classes.
57 KG – Notable Matches and Rankings
Musa Mekhtikhanov continues to dominate the 57 KG division after defeating Artem Gobaev during the Dagestan vs. North Ossetia duel meet. Gobaev, despite the loss, retains his position in the rankings at number 10.
Yunus Yavbatirov triumphed at the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial, overcoming Shamsedin Babayev. Kurban Salikhov and Magomedkhan Amirchupanov secured bronze medals in this event.
61 KG – Leadership Dynamics
Zavur Uguev holds the top position in the 61 KG category, following his victory against Azamat Tuskaev from Serbia. Khabib Mekhtikhanov claimed the title at the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial, defeating Musa Alibulatov, while Magomedgadzhi Kochakaev and Musa Payzulaev earned bronze medals.
65 KG – Rankings Shift
Shamil Mamedov has successfully transitioned to represent Bulgaria. His departure has led to a shift in the rankings, positioning Ibragim Ibragimov as the new number one. Ibragimov achieved notable wins over Joey McKenna (USA) and Dzhambulat Kizinov.
- Said Khunkerov won the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial over Ramazan Shamilov.
- Magomedarif Magomedov and Imam Umarov took bronze.
70 KG – Ranking Movements
In the 70 KG class, David Baev climbed to number two after defeating Abdurakhman Dalgatov decisively. Dalgatov fell to number nine after losses against both Baev and Muhammad Dadaev at the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial.
Adam Gadzhimagomedov finished with a silver medal at the Memorial, while Gadzhimagomed Gadzhiev shared the bronze with Dalgatov.
74 KG – Continued Dominance
Zaurbek Sidakov leads the 74 KG rankings after his win against Magomed Dibirgadzhiev. Khabib Zavurbekov emerged victorious at the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial over Ali Makhachev, with Agadzhi Magomedov and Ramazan Muradov capturing bronze medals.
79 KG – Rising Stars
Kasum Kasumov has risen to the fifth spot after his victory at the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial over Malamagomed Gamzatov. Taimuraz Salkazanov from Slovakia defeated top-ranked Akhmed Usmanov in a notable bout at the North Ossetia vs. Dagestan duel meet.
86 KG – Leadership Changes
Artur Naifonov moved up to the number one position after defeating Ibragim Kadiev. Majidgadzhi Aliyev achieved victory over Magomednabi Magomedov at the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial.
92 KG – Top Contenders
Amanulla Gadzhimagomedov avenged a previous loss against Arslan Bagaev in a critical match, solidifying his number one status in the 92 KG category. Shakhban Surkhaev won the Zagalav Abdulbekov Memorial.
97 KG – Consistency at the Top
Abdulrashid Sadulaev remains the leading figure at 97 KG, defeating Soslan Dzhagaev during the duel meet. Zagid Karimov claimed the Memorial title over Omar Ziyautdinov.
125 KG – Upset Alert
Abdulla Kurbanov suffered an unexpected loss to Junior European Champion Inal Gagloev, who rose to the second ranking. Gagloev’s remarkable performance against Kurbanov marks a significant moment in the rankings.
Pound for Pound Rankings
Shamil Mamedov is now out of the rankings due to transferring to Bulgaria. Artur Naifonov improved his position to number four after his recent victories.
Additionally, Arsen Balayan, the U23 World Champion in the 86 KG category, currently ranks at number 24.
