Iranian wrestling legend Abbas ZANDI passed away at age 87. Zandi, who competed in three Olympics (1948, 1952 & 1956), won a gold medal in the 1954 World Championships in 87kg to become the first world champion in Iran wrestling history.

Zandi also the 1958 Asian Games gold medal. He also served as Iran freestyle wrestling head coach in two Olympics (1964 & 1968). 

He also was named as Pahlavan (Winning Pahlavani Wrestling Arm belt) of Iran three times.

United World Wrestling addresses our sincere condolences and our deepest sympathy to his spouse, children and family.