“He was a real role model for young people in the Caucasus. He was a very intelligent, fair, and respectable man. People of that kind aren’t born too often.” These heartfelt words from Khamzat Chimaev during an interview with Adam Zuba reflect his deep admiration and devotion toward his late trainer, Buvaisar Saitiev. Like many of his Russian compatriots, Chimaev revered the three-time Olympic champion and six-time world champion freestyle wrestler as a towering figure in the sport.

When he finally had the chance to train under Saitiev’s watchful eye ahead of his bout against Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 in October 2024, Khamzat Chimaev was elated to learn from the very legend he had long idolized. Tragically, on March 2, 2025, the Olympic champion passed away from reported

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