Kalmyk Greco-Roman wrestler Mingiyan Goryaev has become the winner of the world championship among athletes under the age of 20 in Bratislava, Slovakia. In the final of the up to 72 kg weight category, he defeated Turkey's Salih Yatsici to claim the gold medal. The path to victory involved several intense bouts in which he demonstrated high skill and determination.
Goryaev, born in Elista, began wrestling at age 6 and is a product of the Republican Sports School of Olympic Reserve for Wrestling named after T.L. Baldashinov. Shortly before the triumph he received the title of Master of Sports of Russia of International Class. He previously won the U-20 European Championship. Russian wrestlers compete under the Russian flag and anthem by decision of United World Wrestling.
The achievement was widely reported in Kalmyk and Russian media around 18-19 August 2026 as a source of pride for the republic.