Kadir Birlik, legendary Turkish oil wrestler, dies of heart attack

Kadir Birlik, a prominent head wrestler in the Turkish oil wrestling community, has passed away in the Karamürsel district of Kocaeli.

Birlik was found unresponsive in his vehicle in his garden after relatives were unable to reach him for a period of time. Emergency medical teams responded to the scene, but despite their efforts, he could not be revived. Initial assessments suggest he suffered a heart attack.

Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Tahir Büyükakın issued a condolence message, noting that the 15th Sekapark Golden Belt Oil Wrestling tournament was organized in Birlik's honor. Birlik was a well-known figure in major competitions, including the Kırkpınar Oil Wrestling tournament.