Irek Mukhamedov received professional training at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow with Alexander Prokofiev). After graduating in 1978, he joined the Moscow Classical Ballet Company, and was invited to join the Bolshoi Ballet in 1981, after winning the Grand Prix and Gold Medal at the International Ballet Competition in Moscow. Performing as a Principal until 1990, he was a "muse" to Artistic Director Yuri Grigorovich, becoming the youngest male dancer ever to perform the leading role in his Spartacus, and originating many other roles, in addition to performing the complete classical repertoire. In 1990 Mr. Mukhamedov joined The Royal Ballet, working with Kenneth MacMillan. Presently, Mr. Mukhamedov is a Guest Ballet Master at the English National Ballet, and an in-demand guest teacher in schools and companies around the globe. Mr. Mukhamedov's daughter Alexandra is a YAGP Alumna, and a Principal Dancer with Dutch National Ballet.