Salman Hashimikov has passed away at the age of 73.
He is a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion, winning the title from Vader in May 1989 and holding it for 48 days.
Hashimikov only wrestled for a couple of years, mainly with NJPW, but did compete at NWA Starrcade 1990 as part of the Pat O’Connor International Tag Team Tournament. He last wrestled in 1994 at UWF-I.
Before entering the squared circle, he won the gold medal at the World Wrestling Championships in 1979, 1981, 1982, and 1983 in the heavyweight division in freestyle wrestling.
Saddened to hear about the passing of former IWGP Heavyweight Champion Salman Hashimikov. The 5th holder of the title, defeated Vader just one month into Vader's reign. A decorated Men's Freestyle Wrestling gold medal winner, and a hell of a fighter. pic.twitter.com/T1qUhhhGjv
— Walker Stewart (ウォーカー・スチュワート) (@VelvetVoiceWS) May 28, 2025
Fightful sends condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Hashimikov.
