Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, June 6, 2026: The opening ceremony of the UWW Ranking Series – Ulaanbaatar Open 2026 brought together athletes, coaches, technical officials and wrestling enthusiasts from 25 countries and regions.
Mr. Battushig Batbold, IOC Member and President of the Mongolian National Olympic Committee, welcomed distinguished guests including Mr. Theodoros Hamakos, Vice President of United World Wrestling; Mr. Ya. Sodbaatar, President of the Mongolian Wrestling Federation; and Mr. B. Purevdagva, Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar.
Addressing the participants, he extended his best wishes to all athletes and delegations competing in the tournament.
Wrestling occupies a special place in Mongolia’s sporting heritage and Olympic history. It was through wrestling that Mongolia earned its first Olympic medal, and the sport continues to inspire generations of athletes to pursue excellence on the international stage.
The Ulaanbaatar Open is more than a ranking tournament. For many wrestlers competing this week, it represents an important step toward qualification at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Among the competitors are undoubtedly future continental champions, world champions and Olympic medalists who will shape the sport's future.
The Mongolian National Olympic Committee extends its sincere gratitude to United World Wrestling, the participating national federations, officials, volunteers and supporters for contributing to the success of this prestigious event.
"We wish all athletes outstanding performances, fair competition and memorable experiences during their time in Mongolia," MNOC said.
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