Iran’s Ahmad Aminzadeh is carrying forward the legacy of legendary Siamand Rahman, once regarded as the strongest Paralympian in the world, as he continues Iran’s dominance in the men’s over 107kg Para powerlifting category.
The reigning Paralympic and Asian Para Games champion added another gold medal to his collection at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games on Thursday (22 October), successfully defending his title at the Nagoya City Trade and Industry Center.
For Aminzadeh, the victory was more than another gold medal. It was about honouring the legacy of Rahman, the late Iranian Para powerlifting legend who dominated the heavyweight category and inspired generations of athletes.
“We Iranians always have the strongest para powerlifter in the world, such is our history,” said Aminzadeh, reflecting on Iran’s proud tradition in the sport.
“We had for many years (we had) Siamand Rahman who was the greatest para powerlifter of all time. I thank God that he helped us keep this gold medal in Iran.”
Rahman, a two-time Paralympic champion, became a global icon of Para powerlifting with his extraordinary strength, including his historic 310kg lift at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.
Following Rahman’s death in 2020, Aminzadeh has emerged as one of the leading figures carrying forward Iran’s heavyweight Para powerlifting legacy, winning gold at Paris 2024 and continuing his success on the continental stage.
But despite his experience and achievements, Aminzadeh admitted that defending his Asian Para Games title came with considerable pressure.
“There was a lot of pressure as we have been training so hard for this competition. I thank God he gave me the power to win the gold medal.
“The pressure played with my mind a little bit, but I stayed focused on getting the gold.”
The Iranian star also found himself in the spotlight back home, with his performance broadcast live on television in Tehran.
Asked whether competing or facing a live television interview afterwards was more nerve-racking, Aminzadeh had a simple answer.
“The live link. But it is very good for the sport that we were live on TV back home. Thanks to Iranian TV for broadcasting the competition.”
And after another golden performance, Aminzadeh had just one thing on his mind before beginning his celebrations. “I will call home to speak to my son first,” he concluded looking ahead to his next challenge – the Bahrain 2026 World Para Powerlifting Championship.
