At the rating tournament held in Tirana, the capital of Albania, Nihat Mammadli (60 kg) defeated all his opponents and rose to the highest step of the podium. Sport24.az reports that the member of the national Greco-Roman wrestling team shared his thoughts with the federation's press service about the competition and future goals:
"We prepared very well for the competition. The weight loss process went smoothly. Since I had not participated in competitions for a long time, I did not experience any problems with weight loss. Therefore, I felt very good during the competition. There were strong opponents. But apparently, I was more prepared. I became the champion by defeating all my opponents. Nihad and I have been training together for many years. I knew that the meeting would be held in a head-to-head fight. Because we know each other very well. It is difficult to do something different in such a situation.
The European Championship is coming up. The goal is clear: to become a champion. The title in this competition was a great stimulus before the EC. I believe in my strength. God willing, I will become a 3-time European champion. I will do my best to defend the title.
Last year I broke my rib and had problems with my eyes. Thank God, I am fully ready now. I have no injuries or pain. After the European Championship, my goal will be to succeed in the world championship, where I have not been able to win a medal in 60 kg until now."