Russia dominates European Combat Sambo Championships in Tbilisi
The European Combat Sambo Championships took place in Tbilisi on May 16-17, drawing over 300 fighters from across Europe. Russian athletes dominated the first day, securing 11 medals—six gold, three silver, and two bronze—while their women’s team added three golds and one silver to the tally. Saveliy Soldatenkov, a fighter from Korolyov in the Moscow Region, claimed gold in the over-98 kg division. He faced Ukraine’s Yegor Leonov in the final and emerged victorious. The win marked a standout performance in a highly competitive weight class.
Armenia’s Mkhitar Temuryan also made an impression, finishing third in the same over-98 kg category. His bronze medal added to the tournament’s diversity of winners. The event saw strong participation, with athletes from multiple European nations competing. Russia’s success extended beyond individual victories, as their women’s team also excelled, collecting three gold medals and one silver.
The championships concluded with Russia leading the medal count, thanks to standout performances in both men’s and women’s divisions. Saveliy Soldatenkov’s gold in the over-98 kg class and the women’s team’s achievements highlighted the country’s dominance in the sport. The tournament reinforced Tbilisi’s role as a key host for European combat sambo events.
