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New Japan Pro Wrestling issued the following:
New Japan Pro-Wrestling is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former IWGP Heavyweight Champion Salman Hashimikov on May 28. He was 73.
An amateur wrestling sensation, Hashimikov was a two time European and four time World freestyle champion. In 1989, on the backdrop of significant change in the region and with Antonio Inoki seeking to benefit global relations through pro-wrestling, the 'Japan-Soviet Pro-Wrestling Alliance' would see Hashimikov make his pro-wrestling debut in Ryogoku against the man that would be his 'Team Red Bull' partner, Victor Zangiev. Two months later, Hashimikov would be a part of the first ever Tokyo Dome card at Battle Satellite, scoring a notable victory against Crusher Bam Bam Bigelow.
That result set him in line to challenge Big Van Vader for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship in July 1989. Hahimikov upset Vader to become the fifth ever IWGP Heavyweight Champion, the highlight of a relatively brief but impressive pro-wrestling career that saw him on top of the pro ranks as he had been in the freestyle amateur world.
The thoughts and deepest sympathies of all at New Japan Pro-Wrestling go to Hashimikov's family, friends and fans.
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