“He Became Softer”: Kyle Dake’s Russian Rival Exposes Flaws Ahead Of Paris Olympics

“Kyle Dake has weaknesses that can be exploited,” says Zaurbek Sidakov, Dake’s formidable Russian rival. Their rivalry became legendary after the 2022 World Wrestling Championships, where Sidakov defeated Dake in a 10-7. This victory ended Dake’s streak of four consecutive titles and marked a milestone for Sidakov. 

Although a highly anticipated rematch was expected in Paris, Sidakov’s ban has prevented it from taking place. However, Sidakov hopes to achieve indirect success by sharing insights on how competitors can defeat Kyle Dake. As the Paris Olympics approach, these revelations have sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. Discussions now focus on whether Dake is ready and what changes he needs to make to win at the Olympics.

Russian Wrestler reveals Kyle Dake’s weaknesses in detail for competitors 

Recently on Wrestlers Grind’s Instagram, Russian wrestler Zaurbek Sidakov spoke about Kyle Dake. As observed by Sidakov during a match, he said, “Kyle was very strong. In the first period, he was very strong. Then he in 2nd period I felt that he became softer.” The host also weighed in saying that Dake probably had less energy because of how much weight he was cutting in to compete in a class lower than his regular weight class. Sidakov further revealed that Dake has a “Soviet style” of wrestling, especially in terms of position and foot placements.

However, the American style of wrestling also heavily influences it. Though it was not clear from the interview whether he intentionally meant to compare Dake to Jordan Burroughs, Sidakov mentioned how Boroughs is able to keep more suspense about his next move. This can only mean that Dake is quite transparent in the way he grapples. Sidakov airing Dake’s weaknesses seems to hold an added layer of meaning. This year the Russian is skipping the Olympics to actively pursue a career in MMA. 

However, the MMA decision came after the 74 kg bracket wrestler was declared ineligible to compete in the Paris Games after he took to Instagram to express his excitement for the games, writing, “⏳soon.” This is because of the IOC’s ban on athletes from Russia and Belarus after the Ukraine Invasion. Though AINERP had reviewed and released a list of athletes who distanced themselves from war, Zaurbek Sidakov was not on it. Red Corner MMA also reported the MMA news on their Twitter saying, “According to UFC FW Muhammad Naimov he has already spoken to @AliAbdelaziz00 about potential UFC signing of Olympic freestyle wrestling champ Zaurbek Sidakov who won’t be able to compete at Paris Olympics this year.” 

With Sidakov not in the picture for the Olympics, yet trying to affect Dake’s chances, let’s take a look at how Dake’s been preparing.

Kyle Dake is looking forward to his second Olympics

Kyle Dake is currently preparing for his second appearance at the Olympics. He focuses on three to four hours of physical training every day, with 9 hours of sleep time. Additionally, Dake maintains a diet according to the season and organic grass-fed meats, including a lot of fish. This is all in preparation for the 74kg event in which Dake will participate during the Olympics. In the previous Olympics in Tokyo, he bagged a bronze in the same event and is hoping to go higher this time.

He said, “The 2020 Olympics were a rollercoaster of highs and lows, but I’m determined to come back stronger and claim gold in Paris.” “I’m leaving no stone unturned,” Dake further said about honing his technical skills. He is reportedly going to go up against Khetik Tsabolov of Serbia. He is the former 2014 World Champion. There’s also Daichi Takatani of Japan who won the bronze medal in the 2023 World Championship. He is known for executing quick leg attacks. Additionally, from Belarus, there’s Mahamedkhabib Kadzimahamedau, who was the 2020 Olympic silver medalist and has defeated both Sidakov and Dake.

The line-up is really fierce for the Paris Games. Hopefully, Dake will be able to come out on top.