Bulgarian Wrestling Federation Clarifies Position on Shamil Mamedov Case

The Bulgarian Wrestling Federation has issued an official statement in response to disputes over the participation of naturalized athletes in the national team.

According to Dzulurgan.ru, the document emphasizes that the leadership consistently pursues a policy of supporting and developing local wrestlers, while the issue of the role of naturalized athletes will be discussed at the upcoming Board meeting of the Federation.

The Case of Alen Khubulov and Georgi Ivanov
Unlike in Greco-Roman wrestling, where boycotts had previously been recorded, no such conflicts have arisen in freestyle. Naturalized athlete Alen Khubulov (CSKA) missed one training camp for valid reasons and in his last match defeated Georgi Ivanov (Dimitrovgrad). To maintain competitive balance, a rematch was scheduled, but Ivanov did not appear. As a result, the coaching staff decided: Khubulov will represent Bulgaria at the World Championships in Zagreb, while Ivanov will compete at the U23 Championship in Novi Sad.

The Situation with Shamil Mamedov
The Federation noted separately that the naturalization of 2023 World Championships bronze medalist Shamil Mamedov was the result of decisions made by the previous leadership. The current administration, despite his high level and achievements, does not intend to register him. In the same weight category, Bulgaria is relying on Mikya Naim (“Levski Sofia”).

Future Priorities
The organization confirmed its commitment to implementing the program of Stanka Zlateva, approved by the majority of the country’s clubs. Key areas include centralized training of the national team, professional development of Bulgarian coaches, and nurturing homegrown athletes.

“We continue to firmly defend the interests of Bulgarian wrestling and its athletes,” the Federation’s statement reads.