FIAS President presents Letters of Credentials to SAMBO Ambassadors Fedor Emelianenko and Islam Makhachev

President of the International SAMBO Federation (FIAS) Vasily Shestakov has presented symbolic Letters of Credentials in the form of statuettes to SAMBO Ambassadors to the World Fedor Emelianenko and Islam Makhachev. The ceremony took place on 5 November in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, at a press conference marking the start of the milestone 50th World SAMBO Championships 2026.

According to the text of the Letter of Credentials, FIAS certifies that its holder is a SAMBO Ambassador to the World. The Federation officially entrusts the Ambassador with representing and promoting SAMBO internationally, contributing to its development and global recognition, and advancing its values and traditions throughout the world.

The Letter is issued in recognition of distinguished achievements and an outstanding contribution to the promotion of SAMBO worldwide. It is signed by FIAS President Vasily Shestakov.

Speaking at the press conference, Vasily Shestakov said the presence of 27 legends of world SAMBO is a particular source of pride for the Championships. These multiple World Champions from different countries have secured their place in the history of the sport.

Among them, the FIAS President noted, are SAMBO Ambassadors Fedor Emelianenko and Islam Makhachev. Both are known worldwide as stars of Combat SAMBO and mixed martial arts, and their example inspires millions of people on every continent.

The 50th World SAMBO Championships 2026 will be held in Tashkent from 6 to 8 November. The competition will be streamed live on www.sambo.live