Turning Back Wasn’t That Important: Azerbaijani Wrestler Heard More Armenian Anthem

As the Summer Olympics approach, Greco-Roman wrestlers and world triple champion, five-time European champion Artur Aleksanyan and Karapet Chalyan will soon depart for training camps. The athletes shared this information during a press briefing on February 17.

Artur Aleksanyan, reflecting on the championship held in Rome, mentioned that his only concern going into the competitions was the risk of injury before the Olympics. “I felt good. I wrestled against my main competitors, and I knew them all well,” noted Aleksanyan.

During the briefing, the athlete also addressed the behavior of the Turkish wrestler who turned his back on the Armenian flag on the victory podium, emphasizing that it wasn't that significant. “At that moment, I didn’t see it; I was told later. However, even if they didn’t turn to face the flag, they heard the Armenian anthem. My opponent, the Azerbaijani wrestler, heard the Armenian anthem more than the Turkish one. Therefore, their turning back isn’t important,” stated Artur Aleksanyan, adding that the Armenian fans in the hall greatly encouraged him, especially with the presence of leading Armenian national football team player Henrikh Mkhitaryan among them.

Karapet Chalyan also promised not to rush into the Olympic Games: “I will work on not rushing during the Olympic competitions because that rush is what hinders me from winning.” Speaking about his competitors, Chalyan mentioned that they were all experienced wrestlers. “It was hard to wrestle, but thank God, I returned without a medal.”

At the Greco-Roman wrestling European Championship held in Rome, Armenia secured a total of 4 medals—2 gold and 2 bronze. Gevorg Gharibyan and Artur Aleksanyan became European champions, while Karen Aslanyan and Karapet Chalyan claimed bronze medals.