During a training session, a serious accident occurred when weightlifter Boris Kharlamov lost control while lifting a heavy log. The incident was later announced by Alexei Medvedev, head of the Perm Power Sports Federation known as Bogatyrskaya Rus, who posted updates on social media.
Medvedev reported that Kharlamov attempted a log lift but failed to maintain control, causing the 110 kg log to strike his abdomen. The impact led to a significant rupture in the small intestine and a substantial loss of blood. Emergency medical teams were quickly on site, and doctors and surgeons worked in a coordinated effort to stabilize him. Kharlamov was removed from ventilation and is reported to be past the most critical phase of his treatment, according to Medvedev.
The 25-year-old athlete had previously set a notable record by lifting a 100-pound dumbbell four times within one minute, highlighting his strength credentials and potential in the sport.
Meanwhile, officials announced a decision on participation in the World Championships scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 4–17. It was shared that no Russian weightlifter would be allowed to participate in this event, a ruling that drew attention within the international weightlifting community and broader sports circles.
In another incident from Moscow, a former basketball player was involved in a collision while driving a Mustang, crashing into a tree and leaving a friend in the vehicle. This event added to a sequence of high-profile accidents surrounding athletes in the region, prompting discussions about safety and risk management in high-adrenaline sports and personal transport contexts.
Across the sports world, Kharlamov’s accident sparked statements about rapid response, medical readiness, and the unpredictable nature of training hazards. Coaches, medical staff, and federation leaders emphasized the importance of strict safety protocols, proper equipment handling, and immediate medical attention to reduce the severity of injuries in power sports. The response to this incident has been noted as an example of effective on-site assessment and swift hospital care, helping the athlete recover and return to a monitored program under medical guidance.
Public updates indicate a cautious but hopeful trajectory for Kharlamov’s recovery. Sports organizations continue to monitor his progress and reiterate their commitment to athlete health and safety in demanding disciplines such as weightlifting, where training loads can be extreme and the margin for error is small. Observers are also watching the regulatory environment around international competition, understanding how geopolitical decisions can influence participation in global events and athletes’ careers. [Source attribution: Perm Power Sports Federation communications]