Arman AVANESYAN: “This year has been a year of victories for me”

For Armenian athlete Arman Avanesyan, the Combat SAMBO tournament at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu marked the pinnacle of his season. Competing in the men’s under 98 kg category, he battled through a series of tough matches to claim the gold medal, reaffirming his status as one of the world’s strongest fighters.

“From the very first bout, it was clear there would be no easy matches. My first opponent was a two-time world champion, my second opponent was also a former world champion, and in the final, I faced the European champion. Every time I stepped on the mat, it was a real test. But all our hard work finally paid off. I thank God and everyone who helped me prepare,” Avanesyan said. “There were no random competitors here – everyone came ready and motivated.”

Preparation for the tournament began long before the start. “When it was announced that Combat SAMBO would be part of The World Games, we started earning ranking points by competing in major international tournaments. Since the beginning of 2025, I’ve been training with focus and purpose – first working on my conditioning with a coach in Sochi, then sparring with friends who helped me prepare, and finishing the final stage at home in Yerevan,” the athlete shared.

This year has been special for Arman in more ways than one. “I won the European Championships, The World Games… and most importantly, my son was born. This truly is a year of victories. Now my next target is the World Championships in November.”

According to Avanesyan, the atmosphere in Chengdu was on par with the Olympic Games. “The organization was top-notch – the arena, the Athletes’ Village, the work of all the staff. It was clear that China loves sport and appreciates SAMBO. People were warm and welcoming, always smiling. It’s a pity we didn’t have time for sightseeing – we weren’t here as tourists but for results,” he said.

He also offered words of encouragement to young athletes: “Never give up – push until the end. Your time will come. Defeats are just a stage in life that makes you stronger. The key is to believe in your goals and work for them.”