Originally Posted by Big  Saitiev looked sloppy. I can't tell if its the age thing or a lack of competition the last couple of years.
The match overall looked very similar to his match against Slay at 2000 Olympics. Mahach has a similar body type to Slay too.
Thanks a lot akzent. |
i spoke to some who know a lot about the russian federation... a few former soviet wrestlers living in the states, and some Kazaki and Uzbeki national wrestlers. they have told me
Saitiev has not had consistent training during the past year. this is mostly due to back/neck injuries.
no matter how good you are, a year without training at such a high level, when everyone is scouting you and training to beat you, will not turn out well.
as can be seen from his worlds 2006 matches,
Saitiev looked very tired, and his timing was not right. some are making references to his age, but the guy is only 32!!!
for what it's worth, my sources believe that he will make the comeback and represent russia in 2008. let's hope he can stay healthy! i also believe these few losses will motivate his training.