Rıza Kayaalp leads Turkish wrestlers to victory at AIGA Global Grappling Series

The AIGA Global Grappling Series was held at the ORA Arena in Istanbul, featuring several prominent Turkish wrestlers. National athletes Rıza Kayaalp, Burhan Akbudak, Şamil Erdoğan, and Feyzullah Aktürk all secured victories in their respective categories.

Rıza Kayaalp defeated Romania’s Alin Alexuc-Ciurariu 7-1 in the 130 kg Greco-Roman style. Feyzullah Aktürk won 11-1 against Germany’s Wladimir Remel in the 97 kg Freestyle category, while Burhan Akbudak beat Germany’s Idris Ibaev 5-1 in the 82 kg Greco-Roman division. Şamil Erdoğan secured a win by pinning Brazil’s Giovanni Piazza in the 102 kg Freestyle category.

Following his victory, Kayaalp expressed support for the organization, suggesting that such tournaments could serve as alternatives to traditional championships. He noted that participating in high-level events provides both competitive experience for younger athletes and financial benefits for successful wrestlers.