Estonian wrestler who won the gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 1920 Summer Olympics. He is also a two-time European Champion.
Aleksander Aberg was a renowned Estonian professional Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestler who dominated the early 20th century. He was a world champion, and his impressive career was marked by numerous championships and accolades, earning him a spot among the most celebrated Estonian professional wrestlers of all time.
Aberg was born on August 11, 1881, in Kolga Manor, Harju County, Governorate of Estonia, Russian Empire. He was of Estonian origin, and his passion for wrestling began at a young age. Aberg's early career took him to North America, where he wrestled in the United States and Canada between 1913 and 1916, achieving moderate success.
It was during his time in North America that Aberg's career began to flourish. He traveled to Japan and China with fellow Estonian wrestler Georg Lurich, before returning to Russia in 1917. Upon his return, he participated in a wrestling tournament in Tallinn, which unfortunately remained unfinished due to the approaching German troops.
The outbreak of World War I forced Aberg and Lurich to flee Russia, eventually settling in Armavir, Kuban Oblast, in south Russia. Unfortunately, the war caught up with them, and in 1920, the front reached Armavir, resulting in the deaths of many, including Lurich, who succumbed to typhoid fever on January 22, 1920. Aberg, too, fell ill but managed to recover, only to catch pneumonia and tragically pass away on February 15, 1920, at the age of 38.
Aberg's remarkable career and untimely death left an indelible mark on the world of wrestling. In recognition of his achievements, the international Aleksander Aberg Memorial in Greco-Roman wrestling has been held in Estonia since 1960. In 2022, Aberg was inducted into the International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.
Aleksander Aberg's remarkable story serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by athletes during times of war and the enduring power of their legacies. Despite the tragic circumstances of his death, Aberg's impact on the world of wrestling continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans alike.
56 Years Old
Estonian wrestler who won Olympic bronze and silver medals in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 1980 and 1988 Summer Olympics. He is a highly decorated athlete in his sport.
59 Years Old
A dominant force in Greco-Roman wrestling, winning three Olympic gold medals and nine World Championships, and later serving as a Russian politician. Known for his exceptional strength and technique on the mat.
