Iran’s Amirhesam Mohammadi has been practicing wushu and competing for 9 years in sanda events. In 2023 he won the sanda gold medal at the 11th Asian Junior Wushu Championships, and in 2024 he won the gold medal at the 9th World Junior Wushu Championships. His federation writes, “Amirhesam has an exceptional talent in Wushu Sanda, having participated in two Asian Junior Wushu Championships, where he held gold medals in both events. Furthermore, at the 9th World Junior Wushu Championships in 2024, he demonstrated remarkable skill by completing one of his competitions in a single round and overcoming all professional competitors within two rounds.”
Interview
1. How do you feel about being recognized as the IWUF Wushu Sanda Rising Star of the Year and gaining popularity with a global audience?
Amirhesam: I am absolutely thrilled to receive this title. It is a great honor to be recognized as a rising star by wushu enthusiasts worldwide, and I deeply appreciate the support and encouragement from fans across the globe.
2. How did it feel to win the sanda gold medal at the 9th World Junior Wushu Championships, and how do you think this achievement contributed to your Rising Star award?
Amirhesam: Winning the gold medal was an incredibly meaningful achievement for me, as I dedicated a great deal of effort to it. This victory holds immense value in my journey as an athlete. I have no doubt that this success played a key role in my selection for the Rising Star award, as it demonstrated my commitment to the sport and resonated with my supporters.
3. How do you hope to contribute to the growth of wushu in Iran, across Asia, and globally? What is your vision for the future of wushu, particularly sanda?
Amirhesam: My fellow athletes and I are constantly working to inspire more individuals to pursue wushu and strive for international success. We actively encourage both aspiring and new athletes to join the wushu community, helping to expand the sport’s reach in Iran, Asia, and beyond. I believe the future of wushu, especially sanda, is brighter than ever. The sport has grown significantly in recent years, and with its increasing global recognition, I am confident that it will continue to thrive on the international stage.
4. What are your wushu goals for 2025?
Amirhesam: My primary goal for 2025 is to compete in the Asian Championships, where I aim to defend my title and secure another championship victory. I am fully committed to giving my best performance and achieving this important milestone.
5. How do you hope to inspire your generation and future generations of wushu practitioners?
Amirhesam: I want young athletes—both in my generation and the ones to come—to understand that with dedication, perseverance, and hard work, anything is possible. Success does not come overnight, but those who remain committed to their goals will eventually see the rewards of their efforts. I hope my journey serves as a source of motivation for many to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenges they face.
