A Unique Setting for a Historic Event
The International Kurash Tournament was held in an extraordinary location, the Emile Anthoine Stadium, directly beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower. This choice of venue emphasized the sport’s boldness and its connection to history. The open-air setting provided a dramatic backdrop, offering athletes and spectators an unforgettable experience.
A Celebration of Culture and Sportsmanship
The event brought together athletes, diplomats, sports leaders, and curious Parisians, all united by their interest in Kurash. The opening ceremony featured athletes marching under their national flags while the anthem of Uzbekistan echoed through the stadium. Dignitaries included Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to France, Nodir Ganiev, who highlighted the competition as a symbol of friendly relations, cultural exchange, and sports diplomacy between the two nations.
Mohammad Reza Nassiri, Secretary General of the International Kurash Association, described the event as a significant milestone for the sport, calling it a “positive move forward for the development of Kurash worldwide.”
Discovering Kurash in Paris
As the evening unfolded, the crowd around the mat grew larger, illuminated by the Eiffel Tower’s lights. For many, this was their first encounter with Kurash. Maxime Boyer, a representative from Toulouse’s city hall, admitted he expected to see Greco-Roman wrestling but instead found a discipline closer to judo with its own unique identity. He praised the event as a beautiful showcase of a thousand-year-old Uzbek tradition in one of France’s most symbolic locations.
British coach Paul Sawyer was equally impressed, noting that Europe had been slower to embrace Kurash compared to Asia. However, he believed the sport was gaining momentum.
Exciting Matches and New Champions
The tournament featured four weight categories: men’s -90 kg and +90 kg, women’s -70 kg and +70 kg. France, as the host nation, fielded four athletes in each class, ready to challenge Uzbekistan’s reigning champions.
In the heavyweight division, Sherali Juraev from Uzbekistan faced Dutch contender Ansah Ferdinand in a thrilling semi-final that ended in the final seconds. Juraev then defeated French athlete Cédric Benjamin in the final, securing his gold medal. In the -90 kg class, Alikhon Nodirov of Uzbekistan claimed victory after a series of strong performances.
On the women’s side, the competition showcased Kurash’s growing global appeal. Britain’s Nun Chloe Jessica dominated the +70 kg category, while the Netherlands’ Nayome emerged as the champion in the -70 kg division.
Each winner left the mat with more than just a medal—they also received a diploma, a cash prize, and crucial ranking points for the WSP International Tournament. More importantly, they earned the respect of a new audience.
Ambitions Beyond Paris
Kurash has a rich history spanning over 3,500 years, yet its future ambitions are firmly set on the global stage. Bakhtiyor Kadirov, First Deputy Chairman of the Kurash Federation of Uzbekistan, stated that the tournament, held in front of the Eiffel Tower where the 2024 Olympics were held, demonstrated the sport’s readiness for the next step. “Our goal is to see Kurash in the Olympic Games,” he said.
Sherali Juraev, the heavyweight champion, echoed this sentiment, expressing hope for Kurash’s inclusion in the Olympics. He also thanked France for the warm reception the sport received.
A Lasting Impact
Even after the final whistle, the atmosphere remained vibrant. The notes of Uzbek music from the opening night lingered in the air, and athletes and fans continued to discuss the matches, tactics, and the unexpected grace of the sport.
For three days, the mat laid out beneath the Eiffel Tower became a bridge connecting cultures and people. For many watching, it was only the beginning of Kurash’s journey into the global spotlight.
