Zaurbek Sidakov will represent Russia once again at the World Championships after defeating Imam Ganishov in a special wrestle-off on Wednesday. The Russian Wrestling Federation held the match during the national team's training camp near Moscow. In the bout, Ganishov built a 3-0 lead in the first period off a shot-clock point and a takedown. However, Sidakov responded with three takedowns of his own to win a controlling, 6-3 decision. 

Sidakov's win over Ganishov:

Sidakov is a 4-time world and Olympic champion but missed the 2024 Russian Nationals after suffering a knee injury in the finals of the 2025 European Championships in April. In his absence, Imam Ganishov won Russian Nationals at the end of June to put himself in the position to make the world team. However, the Russian Wrestling Federation allowed Sidakov a special wrestle-off because of his accomplishments. 

Sidakov will be considered one of the favorites to win Worlds this year at 74 kg. He's currently ranked #2 in our World Championship rankings behind only #1 Chermen Valiev (ALB). Valiev won a bronze medal at the 2024 Olympics and also defeated Sidakov at Euros this year (4-2). Sidakov and Valiev are the clear favorites to win gold in Croatia and their potential rematch at Worlds will be one of the most anticipated matchups of the tournament.