Askhab Kalayev, a multiple-time Azerbaijani weightlifting champion and veteran of the Second Karabakh War, plans to compete in the upcoming Azerbaijan Weightlifting Championship.
In a statement to Idman.Biz, the 27-year-old Askhab Kalayev, who currently serves as the head of department at the Azerbaijan Deaflympics Games Committee, stated that he aims not only to return to the competition arena but also to win again after seven years.
"I last competed in the national championship shortly before the war, in 2019, and became the champion in the over 110 kg weight category. Now, I want not just to return but to repeat my success from seven years ago. Otherwise, what's the point of returning? I have already started more intensive training and hope to get in shape for the championship, which is scheduled to be held at the end of February or the beginning of March next year. I don't want to say anything more now - everything will depend on the result I show at the national championship," said Askhab Kalayev.