Who is Turan Balaban? Bio, Age, Height, Family, Career and More

Turan Balaban: The Twin Power of the Turkish Oil Wrestling

A formidable force in the er meydanı (field of honor), Turan Balaban was born on September 3, 1987, in the Akçay village of Elmalı, Antalya. As the twin brother of the legendary champion İsmail Balaban, Turan has carved out his own prestigious path in the ancient sport of Yağlı Güreş. Emerging from a hardworking agricultural background, he has proven that the Balaban name is synonymous with resilience, technical mastery, and the enduring spirit of the Anatolian “Pehlivan” tradition.

A Record-Breaking Ascent: The Rapid Rise to Chief Pehlivan

Turan Balaban’s professional career is highlighted by an extraordinary achievement that remains a rare feat in Wrestling history. In 2014, he accomplished the incredible task of jumping through three different categories in a single month. Starting the season in the “Small Medium Small” (Küçük Orta Küçük) rank, he dominated tournaments in Kumluca, Samsun, and Kocaeli in quick succession, eventually earning his way into the “Başaltı” category. By 2015, following a legal re-ranking at the 654th Kırkpınar, he was officially promoted to the rank of Chief Pehlivan (Başpehlivan), joining his brother at the highest level of the sport.

Known for his defensive stability and the famous “Kas Kanadı” (Wing Grip) technique, Turan has been a consistent high-performer in the CW Enerji Turkey Oil Wrestling League. One of the most emotional moments in the sport’s recent History occurred when the two brothers were drawn to face each other in professional bouts—matches that transcended competition and became a celebration of their shared legacy. Representing the Antalya Büyükşehir Belediye Spor Kulübü (ASAT), Turan has successfully maintained his elite status, often defeating veterans and upcoming stars alike with his tactical intelligence.

2026: Academic Success and Strategic Evolution

As of 2026, Turan Balaban is experiencing a significant “second spring” in his career, marked by both athletic and personal milestones. In a move that highlights his dedication to self-improvement, Turan (alongside his brother) completed his Master’s Degree at Trakya University in early 2026. This academic achievement in sports sciences has allowed him to apply modern physiological theories to his traditional training, leading to a more refined and enduring performance on the grass.

The 2026 season has seen Turan Balaban taking on a more strategic role within Antalya ASAT. In May 2026, he delivered a strong performance at the 13th Manavgat Oil Wrestling Tournament, demonstrating that his technical precision remains as sharp as ever. While he often supports his brother’s pursuit of the Golden Belt, Turan’s own 2026 campaign is focused on securing a major tournament victory to solidify his individual legacy. Off the field, he has become an influential figure in the “Balaban” sports brand, focusing on mentoring the next generation of wrestlers in Antalya.

Personal Life: The Balaban Family Legacy

Turan Balaban leads a balanced life that remains deeply rooted in the traditions of his hometown, Elmalı. He is married to Sultan Akkaş Balaban, and the couple is frequently seen together at sporting events and traveling across Turkey and Europe. Turan is known for being the “calm core” of the family, often providing emotional support to his twin brother during the high-pressure Survivor era and major Kırkpınar finals. His commitment to his family, including his older brother Ertan Balaban, showcases a bond that is widely respected within the Turkish sports community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When and where was Turan Balaban born?
Turan Balaban was born on September 3, 1987, in the Elmalı district of Antalya, Turkey.

How tall is Turan Balaban and what is his weight?
He stands at 1.80 meters (5’11”) and maintains a competition weight of approximately 98-103 kg.

Is Turan Balaban married and does he have children?
Yes, he is married to Sultan Akkaş Balaban. As of 2026, the couple enjoys their shared travels and professional life; they do not have children.

What is Turan Balaban’s most unique career achievement?
In 2014, he made history by jumping through three wrestling categories in just one month, a record-breaking ascent to the elite ranks.

Which club does he represent in the 2026 season?
As of 2026, he continues to compete for the Antalya Büyükşehir Belediye Spor Kulübü (ASAT).

Has Turan Balaban ever wrestled against his twin brother?
Yes, the Balaban twins have faced each other several times in professional “Chief Pehlivan” bouts, most notably in 2022, creating some of the most memorable moments in er meydanı history.

Check out our 1987 born celebrities page to discover Turan Balaban and other notable people born in the same year.