On March 2, 2025, the world of sports suffered an immense loss with the passing of Buvaysar Saitiev, a three-time Olympic freestyle wrestling champion. He was just days away from his 50th birthday, which would have been on March 11. Saitiev died unexpectedly at the age of 49 from what preliminary reports are citing as cardiac arrest, likely stemming from complications related to his health issues.
According to Mikhail Mamiashvili, president of the Russian Wrestling Federation, the news of Saitiev's death came as a shock. He noted, "This loss is not just felt across our nation, but around the world of wrestling." Following the incident, Saitiev was rushed to a Moscow hospital. Although he entered with symptoms consistent with poisoning, his condition rapidly deteriorated, and he passed away within hours of hospitalization.
On March 3, Saitiev's body was returned to Grozny, Chechnya. There, he was honored by government officials, fellow athletes, and community leaders, marking the immense respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career. A three-day period of mourning was declared across Chechnya, underscoring the impact he had both on and off the wrestling mat.
Saitiev's wrestling career was nothing short of legendary. He clinched three Olympic gold medals during his career, winning at the 1996 Atlanta, 2004 Athens, and 2008 Beijing Olympics. He also earned six gold medals at World and European Championships, remaining undefeated from 1995 to 2000.
After his retirement from sports, Saitiev became actively involved in community service. He worked to mentor youth wrestlers and advocate for sport within the Russian Duma, where he was elected as a deputy from 2016 to 2021.
Reports surrounding the moments leading to Saitiev's death are shrouded in some mystery. Initial investigations revealed he suffered from lung issues and was receiving treatment for them. According to reports from various sources, including the Telegram channel Baza, Saitiev had felt unwell prior to his hospitalization. Eyewitness accounts described how he collapsed outside his residence, prompting quick action from nearby passersby who attempted to revive him.
Indira Saitieva, his wife, revealed unsettling details of the lead-up to the tragic event. She indicated to news outlets: "Before his passing, Buvaysar fell from the window of our second-floor apartment." While accounts vary, it appears Saitiev sustained injuries including broken ribs and bruising from the fall. Indira noted, "I was not at home at the time. He was watching TV, and it still confuses me how this accident could have occurred." Law enforcement is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the fall.
The wrestling community has expressed outpouring tributes and condolences. Artur Taimazov, another prominent wrestler and Deputy of the Duma, stated, "His death is not just our loss, but the loss of the entire sporting world. We shared years of memories and victories together on the mat." Former Russian national team coach Dzhambolat Tedeev echoed similar sentiments, recalling Saitiev as irreplaceable, saying, "Individuals like Buvaysar are born once every hundred years. He was the captain of our team and held immense influence and respect."
Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov described Saitiev as not merely a terrific competitor but also as a symbol of perseverance and dignity. He remarked, "Saitiev's legacy will be forever cherished; he embodied the spirit of the Chechen people. He was not only one of the greatest wrestlers but also held tremendous moral character."
Across various social media platforms, tributes have poured in highlighting Saitiev's achievements and kindness. Former UFC champion Georges St-Pierre shared his condolences online, labeling Saitiev as the “best wrestler of all time,” reflecting the widespread recognition of Saitiev's impressive career and character.
The funeral of this extraordinary athlete took place on March 4, 2025, at his home village of Novokuli, Dagestan. Thousands attended, with prominent officials and fellow athletes present, marking the deep respect and admiration Saitiev earned through his career and life. The tragedy of his passing reminds us not only of his storied accolades but also of the fragility of life. Many who gathered to bid farewell expressed their sorrow and solidarity, reinforcing how sports can unite people beyond borders.
Indeed, Saitiev left behind his remarkable legacy and his family, including his wife Indira, five sons, and one daughter. They now bear the weight of both grief and the pride of his storied achievements. Buvaysar Saitiev will undoubtedly remain a beacon of inspiration, symbolizing determination, excellence, and human spirit throughout the annals of sports history.