His father was a wrestler, which led to Mahdavi's involvement in the sport starting at the age of fifteen.

[5] In October 2020, Mahdavi left Iran due to ongoing concerns of its government's treatment of human rights by walking across its border with Turkey.

"[5] After arriving in Italy, Mahdavi began training at the Lotta Club Seggiano gym in Pioltello,[8] which was recommended to him by a friend he made on Instagram.

His coach there, Marco "Papi" Moroni, also helped him start a job as a bouncer at a nightclub.

[5] The coaches at the gym quickly noticed Mahdavi's advanced technique and strength, which prompted them to train him for competitions.