Aleksandr Medved

Aleksandr Medved, a giant Soviet who wrestled in the unlimited class for much of his career, holds the record for the most world and Olympic championships won in wrestling – ten, and is considered by some the greatest freestyle wrestler ever. Exclusively a freestyler, he wrestled early in his career as a light-heavyweight. His first title was in 1962 when he won the world championships. He later won Olympic gold as a light-heavyweight (1964) and super-heavyweight (1968, 1972). His World Championships came at light-heavyweight (1962, 1963, and 1966), and super-heavy (1967, 1969, 1970, and 1971). He was European Champion in 1966, 1968, and 1972, competing less often at that meet. He was a Soviet champion in 1961-63, and 1966-70. As a super-heavyweight, Medved's record is more impressive when one considers that he was quite light for that class (his maximum weight was about 110 kg. [242 lbs.]), usually wrestling much heavier opponents. At the 1980 Olympics, Medved recited the Officials' Oath at the Opening Ceremony. He later became a coach for the Belarussian freestyle wrestling team.