Overview

Gholamreza Takhti was an Iranian wrestler celebrated for his technical skill, sportsmanship, and integrity. Often referred to as “Jahan Pahlavan” (The World Champion), Takhti became a national hero in Iran not only for his success in wrestling but also for his humble and generous nature. He competed in the freestyle wrestling category and won a gold medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics in the 87 kg weight class. In addition to his Olympic success, Takhti earned two Olympic silver medals (1952 Helsinki, 1960 Rome) and four world championship medals, including two golds (1959, 1961) and two silvers (1951, 1962).

Takhti was admired for his fair play and humanitarian efforts, including his support for earthquake victims in Iran. His legacy extends beyond his wrestling achievements, as he is remembered for his strong sense of ethics and his refusal to compromise his principles, even when it cost him victories. His untimely death in 1968 at the age of 37 led to widespread mourning in Iran, and he remains an iconic figure in Iranian sports history.