Khadzhimurat Gatsalov

Khadzhimurat Gatsalov, born on December eleventh, nineteen eighty-two, is a distinguished Russian amateur wrestler known for his remarkable achievements in the sport. He first gained international recognition when he clinched the gold medal in the freestyle 96 kg category at the 2004 Summer Olympics, where he notably defeated future UFC champion Daniel Cormier in the semi-finals.

Throughout his career, Gatsalov has demonstrated exceptional prowess on the mat, earning five world medals in the 96 kg class at the FILA Wrestling World Championships. In two thousand thirteen, he transitioned to the 120 kg class, where he continued to excel by securing another gold medal at the FILA Wrestling World Championships.

Gatsalov began his senior competitive journey in two thousand two at the 84 kg weight class before moving up to 96 kg and later to 120 kg. His expertise and experience led him to become Cormier's training partner in two thousand fourteen, assisting in preparation for Cormier's fight against Jon Jones at UFC 182.

In November two thousand twenty-two, Gatsalov was appointed as the head coach of the Russian National Freestyle team, a testament to his deep knowledge and commitment to the sport. However, in May two thousand twenty-five, he faced a provisional suspension by the ITA due to a sample from two thousand fifteen that tested positive for the banned substance ipamorelin.