The 1st World Pahlavani Wrestling Championships held under supervision of the United World Wrestling took place this weekend in Minsk. Wrestlers from more than 40 countries competed in this traditional wrestling style wth Iran, Turkey and Russia finishing in the top three team spots.

The origin of “Pahlavani" wrestling dates back to ancient Persia and was said to have been practiced by mythological Iranian heroes in battles.The style combines martial arts and wrestling technics, calisthenics, strength training and motivational music. The style is recognized by UNESCO as one the worlds’ longest-running form of sport.

A champion of Pahlavani is known as a "Pahlavan" which means hero. Those who have achieved this status are very popular among the people of Iran.

The actual style of Pahlavani wrestling is between two competitors who try to take control over each other by throwing their competition to their back or shoulder.

In Pahlavani wrestling, wrestlers wear a pant which extends from waist to below of his knees that contains a belt to hold the pants. In this style wrestler is allowed to use or grab pants or belt as a grip. Also the wrestler can use legs, waist, clinch, leg trips and more likely lift and throw.