Obituary

Former UWW Vice President Oktay passes away

Wednesday, March 27, 2024 - 11:53 By United World Wrestling Press

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CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (March 27) -- Former United World Wrestling Vice President Kemal OKTAY (TUR) died on Tuesday at the age of 80 years after a prolonged illness.

Oktay, who became the UWW Vice President in 1985, was born in Istanbul in 1944. He remained in that position till 1998 and contributed to benefit wrestling.

A sports enthusiast, Oktay took an interest in wrestling after his son Ali won medals in age-group competitions. Ali has won medals at the age-group European and World Championships.

A recent surgery plus his deteriorating health had kept Oktay away from wrestling.

United World Wrestling expresses its deepest condolences to the Oktay family.

UWW statement on Iran wrestlers

Thursday, January 29, 2026 - 15:34 By United World Wrestling Press

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CORSIER-SUR-VEVEY, Switzerland (January 29) -- United World Wrestling has received multiple communications regarding the situation of four Iranian wrestlers. UWW is attentive to these concerns and is actively following the situation.

As a sporting organization, UWW is not in a position to directly influence global or national affairs. However, we are particularly concerned about the situation of Iranian athletes impacted by the events unfolding in their country, as we are with all athletes worldwide who are affected by conflict and tragedy.

UWW is seeking further reliable information and reiterates its commitment to the protection of athletes and respect for fundamental sporting values.