Olympic wrestling champions Semen Novikov and Magomed Ramazanov were solemnly welcomed at Sofia Airport with folklore dances, bagpipes and laurel wreaths. "I felt the support of every Bulgarian. My next goal is the world title. I became European champion, now Olympic champion, I need a full set". This was what Semen Novikov, a naturalized Bulgarian born in Kharkiv, Ukraine, said upon his return from Paris, where he won a gold medal in the category of up to 87 kilograms in Greco-Roman style. He thanked Bulgarian businessman and sponsor of Bulgarian wrestling, Grisha Ganchev, for giving him a second chance in sports, as well as his personal trainer Soslan Farniev, who "believed in me and raised my level".

"I thank Bulgaria for giving me a chance. The last few years were very difficult and it was not known if I would be able to continue competing. Bulgaria is my second homeland. When I finish my sports career, I will help Bulgaria by passing on my experience, I hope to be useful to the country. There are many talented people here". This was what gold medalist from Paris in freestyle wrestling, Magomed Ramazanov, who is also a naturalized Bulgarian, originally from Dagestan, said. In Paris, he won the final with 7:1 points in the 86 kg category against legendary Iranian wrestler Hassan Yazdani Charati.

Bulgaria finished the Paris Olympics with three gold, one silver and three bronze medals, taking 26th place in the overall medal standings.