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When speaking about authority, legacy, and moral leadership in the world of fencing, the name Mikhail Paghiev inevitably comes to the forefront. Member of the EFC Referees Commission, a celebrated international referee, and an outstanding mentor, Mikhail's career exemplifies the powerful alternative path that fencing offers beyond being an athlete: the noble art of officiating.

Born in Vladikavkaz, Mikhail was a promising young foilist, part of the Russian cadet national team. His passion for fencing led him to Moscow, where he continued both his athletic and academic journey. Fate soon steered him to Chișinău, Moldova, where he was invited to work as a coach in the city's sports school — a role he has faithfully upheld ever since. It was there, alongside coaching, that he first picked up the referee's clipboard, unknowingly embarking on what would become a lifetime of officiating excellence.

Under the guidance of legendary Soviet coach Oleg Glazov, Mikhail's early refereeing assignments gradually evolved into appointments at prestigious events. His ambition grew stronger: to one day referee at the Olympic Games. What he could not foresee was that he would achieve this dream not once but four times — London 2012, Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024.

The journey was not just about collecting accolades. Mikhail Paghiev could not be overlooked in international refereeing, awarded as referee of the year multiple times. Being recognized as the best referee ten times throughout his career stands as a testament to his exceptional skills, but those who know him understand that his true achievement lies in the example he sets.

Among the many unforgettable moments he presided over, Mikhail officiated the thrilling Olympic final in Rio, where Korea's Sangyoung Park staged an extraordinary comeback against Hungary's Geza Imre, overturning a 10:14 deficit to claim the gold medal. Yet, despite such high-profile assignments, Mikhail often says that his proudest accomplishment is coaching Olga Cojocari, whom he began training when she was nine years old and who today serves as a member of the Refereeing Commission of the International Fencing Federation (FIE).

His influence extends beyond the piste. At the European U23 Championships, Mikhail took on the crucial role of Head Referee, ensuring that matches ran smoothly, all referees were coordinated, informed, and timely, and that the integrity of the event was upheld.

And today — July 22nd — as the World Championships in Tbilisi begin, the fencing community comes together to celebrate not only the start of this major event but also the 60th birthday of one of its most respected figures. In accordance with the rules that require referees to retire at 60, Mikhail will be stepping down from international refereeing — but not from the hearts and memories of those who had the privilege to work with him.

Mikhail Paghiev's path reminds us all: in fencing, excellence can take many forms. While not every champion stands atop the podium with a weapon in hand, the spirit of competition, respect, and mastery lives equally in those who uphold the rules and safeguard the spirit of our beloved sport.

Happy Birthday, Mikhail — and thank you for showing us the highest expression of what it means to serve fencing.

 

Interviewed and the article prepared by Erika Kirpu