Q&A: Meet Elmir Nuriyev, the champion fighting to make Usu-sanda a big sport in Azerbaijan
In 2019, ASAPES student Elmir Nuriyev was voted the best Usu-sanda fighter in Azerbaijan. He believes this martial art doesn’t have the recognition it deserves in Azerbaijan … but the 18-year-old is determined to change that.
So what exactly is Usu-sanda?
EN: Usu-sanda is a sport was created in China. This sport incorporates many different styles of fighting, which is why all Chinese special forces are trained in Usu-sanda.
What are your goals in sports right now?
EN: I have been taking a break from training for around a year, but now it’s time to get back on track. Before now I focused on kickboxing, but I want to help Usu-sanda become an established sport in my home country and gain more recognition internationally arena. My biggest goals now are to achieve success in international Usu-sanda competitions and become qualified as a referee.
What about your achievements?
EN: In 2012, I was awarded third place in the Open Junior Tournament, In 2014, I was awarded the first place in Republic among juniors in Georgia, and the champion of Azerbaijan in Baku 2015, I also became the international champion of Azerbaijan in Baku 2016, in this year I was selected the best fighter of the year. Then I was awarded Europian champion.
Where do you see yourself in five years from now?
EN: I want to follow in the footsteps of my father. He is a military pilot, and want to become a pilot like him.
