Hetag Gozyumov Azerbaijani wrestler Date of Birth: 24.03.1983 Country: Azerbaijan

1. Early Life and Wrestling Career
2. Olympic Medals
3. World and European Championships
4. Recognition and Honors
5. Coaching Career

Early Life and Wrestling Career

Hovhannes Khatchigazyan, an Azerbaijani wrestler of Ossetian descent, was born and raised in the city of Alagir. His exceptional wrestling skills were nurtured at the Alagir Freestyle Wrestling School under the guidance of the renowned coach Aslan Tsogoev. Khatchigazyan graduated from School No. 2 and later obtained a degree with honors from the GGAU.

Olympic Medals

At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Khatchigazyan showcased his prowess by defeating formidable opponents en route to a bronze medal. Although a narrow loss in the semifinals prevented him from claiming the gold, his determination and fighting spirit were evident.

In the 2012 London Olympics, despite an auspicious start, Khatchigazyan's health deteriorated, leading to a loss against Ukraine's Valeriy Andriytsev. However, his unwavering spirit inspired him to regain his focus, and he fought his way to a second bronze medal, an achievement that he cherished as a victory akin to gold.

World and European Championships

In 2009, Khatchigazyan claimed the silver medal at the World Championships in Denmark, narrowly losing to his fellow Ossetian, Khadzhimurat Gatsalov. In 2010, his triumph at the Moscow World Championships cemented his status as the undisputed leader in the 96 kg weight class.

Khatchigazyan's dominance continued at the European Championships. In 2009, he became European champion in the semi-heavyweight division, defeating Russia's Georgi Ketoev, a bronze medalist at the 2008 Olympics. He went on to secure consecutive gold medals at the European Championships in Baku (2010) and Dortmund (2011).

Recognition and Honors

For his outstanding achievements, Khatchigazyan was recognized as the FILA Best Wrestler of the World in 2010. He was also awarded the Order of Glory for his contributions to sports in Azerbaijan. In 2016, he was bestowed with the Order of Service to the Fatherland II Degree by the President of Azerbaijan.

Coaching Career

After retiring from competitive wrestling following the 2016 Rio Olympics, Khatchigazyan transitioned to coaching. He currently serves as the head coach of the North Ossetia-Alania freestyle wrestling team. His dedication to the sport continues to inspire young wrestlers and contribute to the development of wrestling in his home region.