Jafar Salmassi was born in Kadhimiya, Iraq but was originally from Salmas in northwestern Iran.

An accomplished athlete, he taught himself gymnastics moves by reading illustrated books.

On 7 July 1948, he won the bronze medal in the 56 – 60 kg featherweight event.

Later, Salmassi trained Iraqi weightlifters and continued teaching Iranian students there.

When Saddam Hussein took power, Salmassi left Iraq and moved to Iran with his family.