Albanian wrestling star Çermen Valiev has won the silver medal at the World Wrestling Championship held in Croatia, delivering a historic achievement for Albania on the global stage.
Valiev reached the final in the 74 kg category, where he faced Japanese wrestler Takashai, who ultimately won 8-2. Despite the defeat, Valiev’s silver medal remains a major success for Albania, especially at such a high level of competition.
Road to the Final
The 27-year-old champion showcased remarkable skill and determination throughout the tournament:
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In the opening round, he dominated Mongolian wrestler Erdenabat with a convincing 12-2 victory.
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He then eliminated Belgian representative Ibragim Veliev in the next round.
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The quarterfinal proved more challenging, but Valiev defeated American wrestler David Aron with a narrow 7-5 win.
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In the semifinal, he overcame Russian competitor Sidakov 6-4, securing his place in the final.
Although Valiev fell short against Takashai in the decisive match, his performance highlighted his resilience and international class.
A Historic Achievement for Albania
Valiev is no stranger to making history. He previously secured Albania’s first-ever Olympic medal, becoming a national hero and inspiring a new generation of athletes. His silver at the World Wrestling Championship adds another chapter to his legacy and further elevates Albania’s standing in international wrestling.
This latest success proves once again that Albanian athletes can compete with the world’s best, and Valiev’s journey is a testament to dedication, discipline, and national pride.