40 Most Popular Hungary Wrestling Players of All Time

Liam Rooney

Hungary is known for its strong wrestling culture, boasting some of the best wrestlers in the world. Over the years, Hungarian wrestlers have won numerous medals in the Olympic and World Championships.

With their remarkable displays of skill and strength, these wrestlers have left a lasting legacy in the sport. From the legendary Béla Károlyi to the current generation of wrestlers such as Krisztián István, Hungary continues to produce some of the best wrestlers in the world.

We will take a look at some of the greatest Hungarian wrestlers of all time.

1. Imre Hódos

Imre Hódos was a Hungarian wrestler who rose to fame for his success in Greco-Roman wrestling. He was a five-time Hungarian champion, a three-time European champion, and a two-time world champion.

He was a member of the Hungarian national team for more than 10 years and ultimately became an Olympic champion in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics. Hódos was known for his strength and agility as a wrestler, as well as his dedication to the sport.

He trained constantly and was known for his intense focus and determination.

He was also respected for his willingness to mentor younger wrestlers, always ready to share his expertise with the next generation of wrestlers. Hódos’ success in Greco-Roman wrestling was a source of pride to the Hungarian people, and he was celebrated as a national hero.

He was awarded the Puskás Award in 1975, the highest sports honor in Hungary.

He was also inducted into the FILA Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2005. Imre Hódos will always be remembered as one of the greatest Greco-Roman wrestlers of all time, and his success in the sport has been an inspiration to many.

He remains a symbol of hope to everyone who dreams of achieving greatness in the world of sports.

2. József Tunyogi

József Tunyogi was a Hungarian wrestler who was born in the capital of Hungary, Budapest. He had an impressive career in the sport, winning two European championships in two different styles of wrestling.

In 1929, he became the European Greco-Roman wrestling champion and two years later in 1931, he won the European freestyle wrestling championship. This is a remarkable achievement, considering that Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling are two very different styles of wrestling.

Greco-Roman wrestling focuses on upper body strength with the aim of taking down the opponent by grabbing hold of their clothing, while freestyle wrestling is a more dynamic form of wrestling that encompasses grappling, throws, and takedowns.

Tunyogi was able to master both of these very different disciplines, making him an incredibly talented wrestler.

3. Károly Kárpáti

K%C3%A1roly_K%C3%A1rp%C3%A1ti__3

Károly Kárpáti was a Hungarian athlete with a remarkable career. He was an Olympic wrestling champion, winning gold medals in the light-heavyweight and heavyweight categories in the 1948 London and 1952 Helsinki Games respectively.

Kárpáti was a Jewish athlete, born in Budapest in 1924. He began wrestling at the age of 13 and quickly became one of Hungary’s most successful athletes. He competed in the European Championships in 1946 and won the gold medal in the light-heavyweight division.

He was also a member of the Hungarian Wrestling Federation and the Hungarian Olympic Committee. Kárpáti was an inspirational figure for many athletes in Hungary, and his success was a source of pride for the Jewish community in Hungary.

He was the first Hungarian Olympic champion of Jewish origin and his accomplishments made him an icon of the Jewish diaspora. Kárpáti’s success was an example of determination and courage in the face of discrimination and persecution.

He was a symbol of perseverance and hope for many Hungarians of Jewish heritage. Kárpáti’s legacy lives on to this day. He is remembered as a champion athlete and a symbol of strength and resilience.

He was an inspiration to many, and his accomplishments continue to be celebrated by the Hungarian community and the global Jewish diaspora.

4. Tamás Lőrincz

Tamás Lőrincz is an impressive Hungarian wrestler who has achieved great success in the Olympic Games. In 2012, he competed in the Greco-Roman 66 kg event at the Summer Olympics and won a silver medal for his country.

This was a great achievement and was a sign of his talent as a wrestler. Eight years later, Tamás had a remarkable performance at the 2020 Summer Olympics held in Tokyo, Japan. This time, he competed in the men’s 77 kg event and achieved the gold medal.

This marked his biggest success yet, and it is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport of wrestling. Tamás is now considered to be one of the most accomplished wrestlers in Hungary and has a successful career ahead of him.

5. Armand Magyar

Armand Magyar was a Hungarian athlete who competed in the Greco-Roman bantamweight category at the 1924 Summer Olympics. He was born in the early 1900s in Hungary and was passionate about the sport of wrestling from a very young age.

He dedicated his life to the sport and was determined to make a name for himself in the world of wrestling. Magyar was one of the most successful wrestlers of his time, and his accomplishments in the sport are still remembered today.

His most famous victory was at the 1924 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the Greco-Roman bantamweight category. He was able to defeat the reigning champion of the time and take home the gold medal.

This victory was a huge achievement for Magyar, as it solidified his place in wrestling history. Although he was a renowned athlete, Magyar’s career was not without its struggles.

He had to overcome numerous obstacles in order to reach the top of his game, including injuries and financial struggles. Despite these difficulties, Magyar was still able to achieve success in his sport and become an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers.

The legacy of Armand Magyar is still felt in the world of wrestling today. He is remembered for his determination and perseverance, as well as his outstanding performance at the 1924 Olympics.

His success in the sport continues to be an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers everywhere.

6. István Kozma

István Kozma was a Hungarian Greco-Roman wrestler who achieved great success in the sport. His career was marked by several Olympic gold medals, won in 1964 and 1968, and five World Championship titles, won in 1962, 1966, and 1967.

His achievements were recognized in 1967 when he was selected as the Hungarian Sportsman of the Year. Tragically, István Kozma died at the age of 30 in a car accident, cutting short what could have been an even more successful career.

He had already made his mark on the Olympic and World Championship games and was widely respected and admired in the world of wrestling. His death was a great loss to the sport, and he will always be remembered as one of Hungary’s greatest wrestlers.

7. Jenő Németh

Jenő Németh was a Hungarian wrestler who competed in the Summer Olympics of 1924. He competed in the Greco-Roman featherweight event, a type of wrestling that has its roots in Ancient Greek wrestling.

Németh was born in Hungary and began his wrestling career early, training in Greco-Roman wrestling from a young age. He competed in several tournaments throughout his native country before making the Olympic team.

At the 1924 Olympic Games in Paris, Németh competed in the Greco-Roman featherweight event. He was one of the many competitors vying for the gold medal in this event. He put up a valiant effort, but ultimately lost in the quarterfinals.

Despite his loss, Németh was still a great athlete and a testament to the strength and skill of Hungarian wrestlers. Németh’s Olympic appearance was a memorable one, and he is still remembered by many for his contribution to the Greco-Roman featherweight event.

He is an example of the hard work and dedication that it takes to make it to the Olympics. Though he did not win the gold, he was still able to make his mark on the world of wrestling.

8. Ödön Radvány

Ödön Radvány was a Hungarian wrestler who had a distinguished Olympic career. He first competed at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London, England, where he placed 6th in the Greco-Roman wrestling lightweight class.

He then went on to compete in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden, where he won a bronze medal in the same event.

After a 12-year break, Radvány competed again at the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, where he placed 5th in the Greco-Roman wrestling lightweight class. Radvány’s success in the Olympics was a testament to his dedication and hard work.

He was a true champion and an inspiration to all who followed him. He represented Hungary with pride and dignity, showing that hard work and commitment can take you to great heights.

Radvány was one of the few athletes to have competed in three different Olympics, and his legacy in the sport of wrestling will live on for generations to come.

9. Rajmund Badó

Rajmund_Bad%C3%B3__9

Rajmund Badó was a Hungarian athlete who participated in the 1924 and 1928 Summer Olympic Games. He was a Greco-Roman wrestler and competed in the heavyweight class. At the 1924 Summer Olympics, Badó won a bronze medal for his efforts in the heavyweight category.

This was a remarkable achievement for Badó, as he was able to represent Hungary on the world stage and achieve success in a sport he was passionate about. Badó’s success in Greco-Roman wrestling was a result of his dedication and hard work.

He had been training and competing in the sport for many years, and his efforts paid off when he was awarded a bronze medal at the 1924 Olympics.

Badó’s success in Greco-Roman wrestling was an inspiration to other athletes in Hungary, and it highlighted the potential of Hungarian athletes to achieve greatness in international competitions. Badó’s success in the 1924 Olympics was a proud moment for Hungary.

His bronze medal was a reminder of the potential of Hungarian athletes on the world stage. It was a source of pride for the nation and it highlighted the dedication and hard work that is necessary to succeed in international competition.

Badó’s success in the 1924 Olympics is a testament to his dedication and hard work, and it serves as an inspiration to athletes all over the world.

10. István Kovács

István Kovács is a Hungarian wrestler who was born in Nádudvar in Hajdú-Bihar County. He achieved great success in his career, including an Olympic bronze medal in Freestyle wrestling in 1980 and a gold medal at the 1979 World Wrestling Championships.

This makes him one of Hungary’s most successful wrestlers of all time. Kovács is a highly decorated athlete. He won a bronze medal at the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow, Russia, in the freestyle wrestling category.

This was a great achievement for Kovács, as it placed him amongst the best wrestlers in the world. He was also the Hungarian National Champion in his weight class in 1977, 1978, and 1979.

Kovács’s most impressive accomplishment came in 1979 when he won the gold medal at the World Wrestling Championships in San Diego, California. This was a major achievement for Kovács, as it put him at the top of the world rankings in his weight class.

Not only was he able to beat the best wrestlers from around the world, but he also represented Hungary in one of the most prestigious international competitions. István Kovács’s success in wrestling is a testament to his hard work and dedication.

He was able to rise to the top of his sport and become one of Hungary’s most decorated wrestlers with his commitment and passion. His achievements have earned him a place in Hungarian sporting history.

11. Csaba Hegedűs

Csaba Hegedűs is a retired middleweight Greco-Roman wrestler from Hungary. He is renowned for his successful career in the wrestling ring, having achieved many accomplishments. In 1971, Hegedűs won a world title and was named the Hungarian Sportsman of the Year.

This was a great honor for him and a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. Two years later, Hegedűs would have the opportunity to compete at the 1972 Olympic Games, and he made the most of it.

He was able to take home a gold medal, cementing his status as one of the top Greco-Roman wrestlers in the world. In 1973, Hegedűs’ career was almost cut short when he was involved in a serious traffic accident.

Thankfully, he was able to survive with minor injuries, and he was able to compete at the 1976 Olympics. He may not have won any medals at that event, but he certainly proved his resilience and determination.

Today, Csaba Hegedűs is retired but still remembered as one of the greatest Greco-Roman wrestlers in Hungary’s history. His accomplishments and fortitude have been an inspiration to many, and his legacy will live on in the sport for years to come.

12. György Gurics

György Gurics was an impressive athlete from Hungary. He was born in Dunapentele, a town in Fejér County. In 1952, he achieved success on the world stage by becoming an Olympic bronze medalist in Freestyle wrestling.

He continued to excel in his sport, winning a gold medal in Greco-Roman Wrestling at the 1961 World Wrestling Championships. His accomplishments that year were recognized when he was named Hungarian Sportsman of The Year in 1961.

Gurics was a formidable wrestler, who was skilled in both Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. He found success at the highest level of competition, and his accomplishments were duly rewarded.

His commitment and dedication to the sport meant that he was recognized as one of the best in his country. György Gurics is a shining example of greatness and stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when hard work and passion are combined.

13. Ferenc Kiss

Ferenc Kiss was an accomplished Hungarian wrestler who made a name for himself in the world of Olympic sports.

Born in Nick, Hungary, Kiss had an impressive career, competing in three consecutive Olympic games; the 1964 Summer Olympics, 1968 Summer Olympics, and the 1972 Summer Olympics.

His determination and drive led him to compete in these Olympic Games, and as a result, he was able to become a champion wrestler and develop a successful career. Kiss was a talented wrestler who was able to excel in the sport due to his passion and dedication.

He was able to use his skill and determination to become an Olympic champion, and this is a testament to the hard work and dedication he put into his sport. Through his accomplishments, Kiss was able to make a lasting impact on the Olympic Games and Hungarian wrestling.

14. Mihaly Deak-Bardos

Mihály Deák-Bárdos is a prominent amateur Greco-Roman wrestler from Hungary. He competes in the super heavyweight category, which is the highest weight class in Greco-Roman wrestling. He has achieved great success in his career, having been to the Olympics four times.

In addition, he has collected six medals from the European Championships. Mihály Deák-Bárdos has a long history of success in Greco-Roman wrestling. He has competed in the sport since an early age and has consistently placed well in competitions.

His dedication to the sport has paid off, as he has become one of the most successful Greco-Roman wrestlers in Hungary.

His four Olympic appearances have earned him international recognition, and his six European Championship medals demonstrate his consistent excellence in the sport. Mihály Deák-Bárdos’s accomplishments have made him a celebrated figure in Hungary.

He is an inspiration to aspiring Greco-Roman wrestlers in the country, and his achievements have highlighted the nation’s success in the sport.

Mihály Deák-Bárdos’s career is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication, and he serves as an example to others to pursue their dreams despite the odds.

15. Balázs Kiss

Balázs Kiss is a Hungarian Greco-Roman wrestler who is renowned for his impressive accomplishments. He has achieved great success in the 96 kg Greco-Roman division, winning multiple medals in the 2013 World Wrestling Championships.

In particular, he won the bronze medal in the 96 kg division, making him one of the most successful wrestlers in the division.Kiss has dedicated his life to the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling and has become one of the most respected athletes in the world.

He is well-known for his strength and skill in the sport, making him a formidable opponent. He is a fierce competitor who is always pushing himself to the limit in order to reach his goals.Kiss is an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers.

His hard work and dedication have earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike. His success in the 2013 World Wrestling Championships is a testament to his commitment and passion for the sport.

He is a champion in every sense of the word and continues to strive for greatness.

16. János Rovnyai

János Rovnyai is a Hungarian wrestler who achieved a great deal of success in the sport. He competed in the men’s Greco-Roman 100 kg at the 1976 Summer Olympics which was held in Montreal, Canada.

Rovnyai was one of the top contenders in the event and he went on to win a silver medal in the competition. This was a remarkable achievement for a wrestler from a small country such as Hungary.

Rovnyai’s success was a source of pride for the people of his country as it showed that they could compete with the best athletes from other nations. Since his success in the Olympics, Rovnyai has become a symbol of hope and inspiration for many young wrestlers in Hungary.

He has set a high standard for others to aspire to, and his performance at the 1976 Olympics is still remembered as one of the greatest moments in Hungarian sports history.

17. Jenő Bódi

Jenő Bódi is a Hungarian wrestler who has achieved success on the international stage. He represented his country at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea and the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain.

At the 1988 Games, he competed in the Greco-Roman style of wrestling in the lightweight division. He was unable to secure a medal, but his performance was still impressive.

At the 1992 Games, he competed in the same event and was again unable to secure a medal, although he did achieve a personal best result. Despite his lack of success in terms of medals, Jenő Bódi was still a successful wrestler.

He is remembered for his dedication and determination, and for his impressive performances at the Olympic Games.

18. József Faragó

József Faragó is a Hungarian wrestler who has had a distinguished athletic career. He made history in 1988 when he became the first Hungarian wrestler to compete in the Summer Olympics.

Representing his country, Faragó fought his way to the quarterfinals and left with a sense of pride for his nation. Four years later, in 1992, Faragó returned to the Summer Olympics to compete for a second time.

He was determined to make a mark at the event and he did not disappoint, as he achieved a sixth place finish.

This was a significant accomplishment for Faragó and his country, as it was the highest finish ever achieved by a Hungarian wrestler in the Olympics. Faragó is a celebrated athlete in Hungary, and his accomplishments will be remembered for years to come.

His participation in the Olympics has inspired many future generations of Hungarian wrestlers, and his legacy will live on.

19. Lajos Rácz

Lajos Rácz is a Hungarian Olympic wrestler who made history in 1980 when he won a silver medal in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 1980 Olympics in Moscow. Rácz is also a world champion as he won a gold medal at the 1979 World Wrestling Championships.

His achievements in the sport of wrestling have not only earned him international recognition but have also made him an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers around the world.Rácz was born in Hungary and began wrestling at a young age.

He competed in national competitions and was able to develop the skills needed to become an Olympic and world champion. His hard work paid off in 1979 when he won the gold medal at the World Wrestling Championships.

The following year, he achieved international success when he won the silver medal at the 1980 Olympics.

This was a huge accomplishment for Rácz as he was the first Hungarian wrestler to win an Olympic medal in Greco-Roman wrestling. Rácz’s success in the sport of wrestling has continued to inspire many wrestlers to this day.

He is a living example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. His Olympic achievement was a huge milestone in the sport of wrestling and it will continue to be remembered and celebrated for many years to come.

20. László Réczi

László Réczi is a renowned Hungarian wrestler who hails from the city of Kiskunfélegyháza. He achieved great success in his career, with a major highlight being winning an Olympic bronze medal in the Greco-Roman wrestling category at the 1976 Olympics.

This was followed by an even greater achievement two years later in 1977, when Réczi won a gold medal at the World Wrestling Championships.

This made him one of the most successful Hungarian wrestlers of all time, and his accomplishments are still remembered and celebrated today.

21. István Tóth

István Tóth is an accomplished Hungarian wrestler who hails from Szolnok. He is best known for having won a silver medal in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 1980 Olympic Games.

Additionally, he also won gold medals at the 1979 and 1981 World Wrestling Championships. Tóth’s success in Greco-Roman wrestling is particularly impressive, as he was able to win a silver medal in the Olympic Games, a feat not many wrestlers can lay claim to.

His gold medals at the World Wrestling Championships demonstrate his sustained success over the years, as it was two years in a row. With a record like this, it is no wonder that István Tóth is regarded as one of the best Hungarian wrestlers of all time.

His legacy is one that will undoubtedly inspire future generations to strive for excellence in the sport.

22. Tibor Komáromi

Tibor Komáromi is a Hungarian athlete who has competed in two Olympic Games. He has a long history in the sport of wrestling, having first represented his country at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea.

At the event, he was able to compete in the lightweight category of freestyle wrestling. Unfortunately, he was unable to earn a medal in the competition. Four years later, Tibor returned to the Olympic stage for the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain.

At this event, he was able to compete in the middleweight category of freestyle wrestling.

Unfortunately, he was once again unable to earn a medal in the competition. Tibor Komáromi has since retired from the sport of wrestling and is now a coach for the Hungarian national wrestling team.

He is remembered for his dedication to the sport and his commitment to representing Hungary at the highest level. He will always be remembered as a great athlete and an inspiration to future generations of wrestlers.

23. Imre Polyák

Imre Polyák was an accomplished Greco-Roman featherweight wrestler from Hungary. He was a four-time Olympian, competing in the 1952, 1956, 1960 and 1964 Summer Games. His Olympic successes included three silver medals and one gold medal.

He also had a stellar showing at the World Championships, becoming world champion in 1955, 1958 and 1962, and earning a silver medal in 1961 and 1963.

Throughout his career, Polyák consistently demonstrated his prowess in the sport, making him one of the most successful Greco-Roman featherweight wrestlers of his time.

24. Tamás Gáspár

Tamás Gáspár is a Hungarian athlete who has achieved great success in Greco-Roman wrestling. He is a world champion in the sport, having won the gold medal in the ‘96 Olympics in Atlanta and the silver medal in the ‘00 Olympics in Sydney.

He has also won gold medals at several international competitions, including the European Championships and the World Cup. Gáspár is highly regarded in the world of Greco-Roman wrestling and is considered one of the greatest wrestlers in the sport’s history.

He is renowned for his strength, speed and technical prowess, and his ability to outwit his opponents. He is also known for his fierce competitive spirit, and is often seen as a mentor and role model by young wrestlers.

Gáspár’s accomplishments have been recognized by the Hungarian government, and he received the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary in 2002 for his achievements in wrestling. He is also a member of the International Wrestling Hall of Fame and was inducted in 2009.

Tamás Gáspár’s success in Greco-Roman wrestling is remarkable and confirms his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. He is an inspiration to athletes around the world, and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

25. János Varga

János Varga was a Hungarian wrestler who was dedicated to the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling. He achieved the highest level of success in the sport, becoming both an Olympic champion and world champion.

Varga first gained recognition for his wrestling skills in 1960 when he won a gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Rome.

Following his success, he also won multiple European championships and was the only wrestler in his weight class to win both the European and world championships three times.Varga was also a two-time world champion in Greco-Roman wrestling, winning gold medals at the 1975 and 1979 World Championships.

He also won a silver medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Throughout his career, Varga was known for his hard work and dedication to the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling. He was a highly decorated wrestler, and his achievements in the sport are still celebrated today.

He was a role model for many young wrestlers, and his legacy will live on in the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling.

26. Márton Lőrincz

Márton Lõrincz was an impressive athlete from Hungary. He was born in the city of Korond and had an illustrious career in the world of Greco-Roman wrestling.

He was so successful in this discipline that he went on to win an Olympic gold medal in the sport. Márton was known for his tireless dedication to his sport, and he worked hard to reach the pinnacle of success.

He was a well-respected figure in the wrestling world, and his achievements were an inspiration to many. Unfortunately, Márton’s life was cut short when he died in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

While this was a great loss to the sport, his legacy lives on in the form of his Olympic gold medal and the many others he won throughout his career. He is remembered as one of the greatest Hungarian wrestlers of all time.

27. The Hungarian Barbarian

Zoltan Nagy is a retired American professional wrestler who is widely known by his ring name The Hungarian Barbarian.

He made his name competing in North American independent wrestling promotions such as Hardway Wrestling, National Championship Wrestling, the National Wrestling Alliance, and World Xtreme Wrestling.

In his time as a professional wrestler, Zoltan was known for putting on an entertaining show with his unique style of wrestling.

He was especially renowned for his ability to mix traditional European wrestling techniques with the more aggressive American style of wrestling. Zoltan’s career spanned decades and he was able to maintain a strong following of fans who were eager to see him compete.

He was renowned for putting on a spectacle in the ring and was often praised for his showmanship. This showmanship was often displayed through his use of colorful costumes and elaborate entrances.

He also made sure to interact with the crowd whenever possible, which earned him even more admiration. The Hungarian Barbarian’s career was full of highlights, including winning multiple championships and being inducted into the Hardway Wrestling Hall of Fame.

As a testament to his longevity and success, Zoltan was able to retire on his own terms and is still remembered fondly by wrestling fans. He is a true testament to a successful professional wrestling career, and the legacy of The Hungarian Barbarian will continue to live on.

28. Attila Repka

Attila Repka is a world-renowned wrestler and Olympic champion who hails from Hungary. He has achieved success in the sport of Greco-Roman wrestling, which is a wrestling discipline in which the wrestlers are only allowed to use their arms and upper bodies to attack and defend.

Repka has a long and storied career which began when he won his first Hungarian championship in 1990.

In 2001, he was crowned European champion and went on to win the gold medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. Throughout his career, Attila Repka has been known for his dedication to the sport and his willingness to take on any challenge.

He has trained hard and pushed himself to the limits in order to become one of the best Greco-Roman wrestlers in the world.

He has not only achieved success in the ring but has also been an inspiration to many young wrestlers who have followed in his footsteps. Attila Repka is a true champion who has dedicated his life to wrestling and has made Hungary proud.

He is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication, and he is an inspiration to all who aspire to greatness.

29. Péter Farkas

Péter Farkas is an exemplary athlete and a true inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers. He is a Hungarian wrestler who is well-known for his success in Greco-Roman wrestling.

His accomplishments in the sport have earned him the title of Olympic champion. Farkas began his career in the sport at a young age and has since worked hard to become one of the top Greco-Roman wrestlers in the world.

His hard work has paid off, as he has won many competitions, including the European Championship, the World Cup, and the World Wrestling Championships.

His crowning achievement was when he won the Olympic gold medal in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Farkas has been a role model for many wrestlers, inspiring them to work diligently and strive for excellence.

He has set an example of what it takes to become an Olympic champion, and he has motivated many to pursue their dreams.

His success in the sport has been an inspiration for the young generation of wrestlers to work hard and achieve their goals. Péter Farkas is an exemplary athlete and an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers.

His hard work and dedication to his sport have earned him the title of Olympic Champion in Greco-Roman wrestling, and his accomplishments have motivated others to strive for greatness in their own lives.

30. Miklós Szilvási

Mikl%C3%B3s_Szilv%C3%A1si__30

Miklós Szilvási was a Hungarian Greco-Roman wrestler who specialized in the welterweight division. He was a three-time Olympian, competing in 1948, 1952, and 1956. In 1948, he won a silver medal, narrowly losing out to Gösta Andersson in the final.

However, four years later he was able to avenge this loss, with Szilvási claiming the gold medal in the 1952 Summer Olympics. This was a remarkable achievement for Szilvási, who was able to turn the tables in the rematch with Andersson and take the championship.

31. László Papp

László Papp was a Hungarian wrestler who made his mark in the 1928 Summer Olympics. He was born in the small village of Szepesbéla, in present-day Slovakia, on April 26, 1900. He enjoyed a successful amateur career, winning numerous championships in Hungary and abroad.

He was a member of the international wrestling team for his home country from 1923 to 1928. In 1928, Papp competed for Hungary in the Summer Olympic Games in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

He won the gold medal in the featherweight division, becoming the first Hungarian to win an Olympic title in any sport.

He was the first of many Hungarian Olympic champions who would follow, including the legendary Ferenc Puskás and the famous “Golden Team” of the 1950s. Papp continued to compete in wrestling after his Olympic victory, but he was never able to achieve the same level of success.

He retired from the sport in 1932 and returned to Szepesbéla, where he worked as a schoolteacher. He passed away in 1967 and is remembered as one of Hungary’s greatest athletes.

32. Lajos Keresztes

Lajos Keresztes was an accomplished Hungarian wrestler and Olympic champion.

He was a two-time Olympic medalist in Greco-Roman wrestling, winning gold in the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome and silver in the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Keresztes’ career began in Hungary, where he won multiple national championships and was a part of the Hungarian national team.

He was also a gold medalist at the 1958 European Championships, a silver medalist at the 1959 World Championships, and a bronze medalist at the 1962 European Championships. Keresztes’ most notable achievement was winning gold in the Greco-Roman wrestling event at the 1960 Summer Olympics in Rome.

He was a dominant force in the tournament, winning all of his matches by a large margin. He was even able to beat the reigning world champion to take the gold medal. At the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Keresztes won a silver medal in the Greco-Roman wrestling event.

He was unable to defend his title, but he still managed to put in a strong performance in the tournament. Keresztes retired from competitive wrestling after the 1964 Olympics and went on to become a coach.

He was inducted into the International Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1991 and is remembered as one of the greatest Hungarian wrestlers of all time.

33. Zoltán Lévai

Zoltán Lévai is a successful Hungarian Greco-Roman wrestler. He recently achieved a major milestone in his career by winning the silver medal in the 77 kg event at the 2022 World Wrestling Championships held in Belgrade, Serbia.

This accomplishment followed his previous silver medal win in the same event at the 2020 European Wrestling Championships held in Rome, Italy. Lévai is a highly accomplished wrestler and his recent success is a testament to his skill, dedication and hard work.

He has been competing in the Greco-Roman style of wrestling for many years and his achievements at the world and European levels demonstrate his immense talent and dedication to the sport.

Lévai is one of the top Greco-Roman wrestlers from Hungary and his success at the World and European Championships is a great source of pride for both his country and his fans.

He has set a high standard for other Hungarian wrestlers to strive towards and his success should be celebrated by all.

34. Ferenc Kocsis

Ferenc Kocsis is a retired Greco-Roman wrestler from Hungary who has achieved great success in his sport. He is a former Olympic gold medalist, having won the gold medal in the welterweight division at the 1980 Olympic Games.

Kocsis also won the World Championship in 1979 and four European Championships in 1978, 1979, 1981 and 1983. His impressive list of accomplishments makes him one of the most decorated wrestlers in Hungarian history.

Kocsis achieved great success in the Greco-Roman style of wrestling, which is one of the most popular styles practiced in the world. It emphasizes upper-body techniques, such as throws, holds, and locks. Kocsis had to master this style in order to achieve his level of success.

He was also an incredibly focused athlete who was known for his discipline and dedication to his sport. Ferenc Kocsis is a true role model for aspiring Greco-Roman wrestlers around the globe.

His impressive list of accomplishments is a testament to the hard work and dedication that he put into his sport. He is an inspiration to many and is a great example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

35. István Majoros

István Majoros is a Hungarian wrestler and Olympic champion in Greco-Roman wrestling. He is a highly decorated athlete who has won a number of medals in international competitions, including the gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.

He is one of the most successful Hungarian Greco-Roman wrestlers of all time and is regarded as a national hero in his home country. Majoros began his wrestling career early, competing in the European Cadet Championships at the age of 13.

He went on to become one of the top Greco-Roman wrestlers in Europe, winning multiple gold medals at European Championships, as well as the world championship in 1997.

He also won two bronze medals at the World Championships in 1999 and 2001. Majoros’ career reached its peak when he won the gold medal at the 1996 Olympics.

He was the first Hungarian wrestler ever to win a gold medal at the Olympics, and his victory was celebrated widely in Hungary.

Since then, he has become a national hero and an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers. István Majoros is an outstanding athlete who has dedicated his life to the sport of wrestling. He is a true champion who has achieved great success and is a source of pride for Hungary.

36. Ödön Zombori

Ödön Zombori, formerly known as Ödön Janicsek, was a Hungarian wrestler who achieved remarkable success in his chosen sport. He was born in Hungary and began wrestling at a young age.

By his late teens, he had already begun to show signs of great potential, eventually becoming a national champion.

In 1976, he achieved a major milestone when he won a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the Summer Olympics in Montreal, becoming the first Hungarian wrestler to ever win an Olympic gold medal. After his Olympic victory, Ödön Zombori continued to compete for several years, eventually retiring in 1980.

He was inducted into the FILA International Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2002 and was a respected figure in the Hungarian wrestling community throughout his life. He passed away in 2020, but his legacy lives on as an inspiration to many aspiring wrestlers.

37. Bálint Korpási

Bálint Korpási is a highly successful Hungarian Greco-Roman wrestler who competes in the 72 kg division. In 2016, he achieved the ultimate success in his sport when he won the gold medal at the World Championships in Budapest.

This remarkable success was followed by another impressive accomplishment in 2020 when he won the gold medal in the 72 kg event at the Individual Wrestling World Cup in Belgrade, Serbia. Korpási’s career highlights demonstrate his dedication and hard work in the sport.

His talent and commitment to excellence have enabled him to reach the pinnacle of Greco-Roman wrestling. He is an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers all over the world and a great example of what can be achieved with dedication and perseverance.

38. András Sike

András Sike is a renowned name in the world of Greco-Roman wrestling. He is a retired bantamweight wrestler from Hungary and has a great record of achievements in the sport. In 1988, he represented his country in the Olympic Games and won a gold medal.

He was further successful in his career, as he managed to win four medals in world and European championships between 1988 and 1991. After retiring from competitions, he set up his own restaurant in Hungary.

His success as a wrestler has been an inspiration for many young wrestlers who dream of competing in the Olympics one day.

39. Norbert Növényi

Norbert Nottny Növényi is a truly remarkable individual who has achieved remarkable feats in his lifetime. A Hungarian native, he first made history as an Olympic champion in light heavyweight wrestling at the 1980 Summer Olympics.

After his success in the Olympics, Norbert went on to become a two-time kickboxing world champion. Following his success in the ring, Norbert decided to pursue a career as an actor in Hungary.

In January 2009, he made history again as the oldest WFCA mixed martial arts world champion. His long list of accomplishments is a testament to his dedication and commitment to excellence.

Norbert has undoubtedly experienced his fair share of ups and downs throughout his journey, but he has never lost sight of his goals and has always pushed himself to the limit.

His hard work and dedication have paid off, as his remarkable accomplishments have made him a well-known and respected figure in Hungary and abroad.

40. Bert Ruby

Bert Ruby was a unique figure in the world of professional wrestling. He was born in Hungary but later moved to the United States. He was a professional wrestler, meaning he competed in professional wrestling matches. He was also a professional wrestling trainer.

He had the unique ability to train aspiring wrestlers to become successful in the business. Finally, he was a wrestling promoter, meaning he was responsible for organizing wrestling events and generating interest for them.

He was a well-known and respected figure in professional wrestling and was an important part of the development of pro wrestling in the United States.

Conclusion

Hungary is home to some of the best wrestling players in the world. These athletes have worked hard to perfect their craft and have achieved great results both domestically and internationally.

Many of the best wrestlers from Hungary are members of the Hungarian National Wrestling Team, and they have an impressive history of success at the Olympic Games and other major tournaments.

Hungary is proud to have such a talented group of wrestlers that represent the country on the world stage and continue to develop the sport of wrestling in the country.

Photo of author

Liam Rooney

Recent Florida International University graduate with a passion for journalism and a focus on sports, especially in wrestling. Recognized with a 3rd place award in the Society of Professional Journalist's Green Eyeshade awards for outstanding coverage of FIU men's soccer. Experienced in local news, breaking stories, and community reporting from an internship at the Palm Beach Post. Hosted and produced a radio show, adept at creating video packages. Eager to embrace diverse journalistic opportunities beyond sports, bringing a versatile skill set and a relentless drive for excellence to the field.