Arman Avanesyan nominated for IWGA Athlete of the Year 2025

Armenian sambo athlete Arman Avanesyan has been shortlisted for the prestigious World Games Athlete of the Year 2025 award, established by the International World Games Association (IWGA). His nomination was submitted by the International Sambo Federation following an outstanding and successful season.

The shortlist features 30 athletes and duos from various sports, each recognized for outstanding achievements in 2025. Avanesyan became the only representative of sambo and the only athlete from Armenia in this list.

The past year was one of the most successful in Avanesyan’s career. In the spring, he won gold at the European Combat Sambo Championship, confirming his high level of preparation and consistency on the international stage. The highlight of the season was the World Games in Chengdu, China, where he claimed victory in the under‑98 kg category.

In addition, in 2025 Avanesyan made his professional MMA debut in the heavyweight division, defeating Ali Aryael (0–1) by technical knockout at the Mix Fight tournament in Yerevan.

Voting for Athlete of the Year will open on January 12 and close on February 2.