BAKU, July 16 — Rising Iranian wrestling star Amirreza Masoumi, a reigning Asian champion and multiple-time world medalist at the youth and U23 levels, has been spotted training in Baku, sparking speculation about a potential shift in national affiliation.
According to Armenian sports outlet Sportball24, Masoumi recently shared images from both Yerevan and Baku on his social media accounts. A photo has also circulated online showing Masoumi training at a camp with the Azerbaijani national team, suggesting that discussions with the Azerbaijan Wrestling Federation (AWF) may have yielded positive results.
However, the AWF has denied any formal agreement or recruitment of the athlete.
Federation Response: “No Basis for the Speculation”
Speaking to Oxu.az, AWF spokesperson Sarxan Musayev clarified that Masoumi’s presence in Baku is part of standard international training exchanges.
“Azerbaijan provides top-class training conditions that attract elite wrestlers from across the globe,” Musayev said. “Masoumi is training here for the same reason. Claims made by Armenian media regarding a decision between Yerevan and Baku are unfounded. He is not being considered for our national team, and there is no official discussion on that matter.”
Musayev added that should any official development occur, the federation would release a public statement.
Background: A Rift with Iran’s Wrestling Federation
Masoumi’s appearance abroad follows tensions with Iran’s Wrestling Federation, whose president reportedly suspended the wrestler from the national team earlier this year after internal disagreements. Despite an earlier connection with Armenian wrestling officials, Azerbaijan may now emerge as a training base—though not necessarily a new sporting nationality.
Achievements and Career Outlook
Masoumi, born in 2004, is widely regarded as one of the most promising heavyweight wrestlers globally. His accolades include:
-
6 medals across U17, U20, and U23 World Championships
-
2025 Asian Champion
-
Gold medalist at the 2025 Zagreb Ranking Series
The 19-year-old’s future remains uncertain, but his recent movements suggest he is seeking stable training environments and international competition opportunities outside of Iran.
