In brief
Karlos Nasar, Bulgaria’s four‑time world champion, won the men’s 95‑kg title in Ningbo, China, breaking all three world records with lifts of 185 kg, 230 kg and a 415‑kg total. He was welcomed to Sofia’s Vasil Levski airport by officials, friends and fans, dedicating the triumph to his late coach and promising to continue competing in upcoming Bundesliga events and the World Cup in Qatar.
Karlos Nasar flew into Sofia’s Vasil Levski airport on Saturday, carrying the pride of a nation after lifting a total of 415 kg at the IWF World Weightlifting Championships in Ningbo, China, on November 4.
In the 95‑kg category he set new world records, snatching 185 kg and clean‑and‑jerking 230 kg, the highest marks in the sport’s history.
The athlete declared the victory a tribute to Bulgaria, his late coach Iliyan Iliev, and the people who gave him support.
He said his fierce competition came from Iran’s Ali Alipour and Kazakhstan’s Nurgissa Adiletuly, who “brought renewed energy to the competition.”
He added, “I had a hard time overcoming my health problems, but thank God I was healthy in the final month before the championships. It was character and willpower alone that helped me overcome all of this. This is a truly Bulgarian heart that does not give in to pain or fear and is ready to keep moving forward for Bulgaria.”
“I am very happy and feel the support of the people. Sport brings people together. I have always understood the role of sport in society, but now I also feel my own role and am very proud.”
Behind him, Youth and Sports Minister Encho Keryazov and Bulgarian Weightlifting Federation President Asen Zlatev welcomed him.
Minister Keryazov praised Nasar, saying the title was a major achievement for Bulgaria’s sporting community.
Nasar plans to compete in two Bundesliga events in November before joining the World Cup in Qatar in December, hoping one day to be the only weightlifter to win four Olympic medals.
