“You don’t get to the highest levels of the sport without having the basics in order,” Daniel Cormier once remarked regarding wrestling. This certainly pertains to one of the icons in the industry, Buvaisar Saitiev. Though recognized for his unconventional and dynamic wrestling technique, his skill on the mat was nothing short of pure artistry with his precise control over every movement he made.

Is there a highlight in his career? Too many to count. But recall the 2003 World Championships held in New York City, where he went up against Senegal’s Jean Diatta. In the opening 28 seconds, Diatta scored a swift 1-0, a development that clearly unsettled the Russian legend. Certainly, the response arrived with an 11-1 technical fall just two minutes and 22 seconds into the opening period. Did the match conclude at that point?

No, due to the past regulations in wrestling. Since FILA governed this match, they had a continuation rule that allowed the victorious wrestler to proceed after demonstrating technical superiority. Certainly, this provided a significant edge to Saitiev, who was irritated by the first takedown and ultimately  trounced his opponent with a score of 34-2.

And so, the recent announcement concerning the wrestling icon has left many in mourning, as Saitiev tragically passed away on March 2, 2025, at the age of 49. The preliminary cause of death points to cardiac arrest, leaving many, including Cormier,  in a state of shock following the announcement. United World Wrestling shared an update on Instagram: “It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of one of the greatest our sport has ever seen, three-time Olympic gold medalist, Buvaisar SAITIEV. May Buvaisar rest in peace.” It quickly gained traction, leaving the wrestling community in disbelief. Daniel Cormier shared this Instagram post on his story, declaring, “One of the greatest of all time. Rest in peace champion.”

Undoubtedly, Saitiev’s career was adorned with numerous prestigious accolades, solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats in the sport. Among the most significant accolades from his career are three Olympic gold medals and six World Championship titles. But what point did he step away from his career? Immediately following his triumph in securing a third Olympic gold medal in Beijing, Saitiev expressed, “I’m not sure I can still compete at the highest level.” And so, in 2009, he stepped away from the world of competitive wrestling. Despite his passing, his legacy endures, and the news of his death resonated throughout the UFC community.

Just like Daniel Cormier, the UFC world united to pay their tributes

It is understandable that someone like Daniel Cormier would be profoundly impacted by the passing of Buvaisar Saitiev, a genuine legend in the realm of wrestling. Several renowned figures from the UFC community also offered their thoughts on this tragic update. A notable individual from Russia, a certain Khabib Nurmagomedov, shared a photo of himself with Saitiev on his social media platform.

“You inspired millions of children around the world and we will miss you. I express my sincere condolences to [your] family and loved ones,” said Khabib. Adding another layer of significance is the fact that both wrestlers hailed from the Dagestan region.

Khamzat Chimaev also shared his appreciation for the legend, alongside The Eagle. Even though Nurmagomedov has retired from the sport, Chimaev finds himself in a prime position to pay tribute to the wrestling legend by the end of the year at UFC 318. Why is that? Because he is rumored to face off against champion Dricus Du Plessis.

Saitiev, a legendary figure in the sport, has inspired notable athletes such as Khabib and Chimaev, both of whom hail from Russia. However, his influence extended globally, as American MMA star Henry Cejudo remarked, “I wouldn’t be the wrestler that I am today. Rest in peace, my hero, my legend, and my great friend. 1975 – 2025 RIP.” For countless individuals, Saitiev stood as a symbol of inspiration, and even in his absence, his legacy is set to persist. May he rest in peace!