Sabre Final: Stanislav Pozdnyakov vs. Sergey Sharikov (1996 Olympics)

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The men's sabre final at the 1996 Summer Olympics featured a thrilling duel between two Russian fencers, Stanislav Pozdnyakov and Sergey Sharikov. This event marked a significant moment for Russia, as it was their first Olympic medals in the men's sabre since competing as an independent nation. The competition was held on July 21, 1996, at the Georgia World Congress Center, with a simplified single-elimination format where bouts were to 15 touches. The match between Pozdnyakov and Sharikov was intense, culminating in Pozdnyakov's victory. Both fencers showcased exceptional skill, highlighting Russia's dominance in the sport. This event not only showcased individual prowess but also set the stage for Russia's team success in the men's team sabre event, where Pozdnyakov and Sharikov, along with Grigory Kiriyenko, secured the gold medal. The rivalry and teamwork displayed by these Russian fencers underscored their nation's strong presence in Olympic fencing.