Andrianov had an outstanding record in the Olympics

Nikolai Andrianov, the second most decorated male athlete in Olympic history, has died at the age of 58.

Gymnast Andrianov won seven gold medals for the Soviet Union over three Games, including four at Montreal in 1976.

His total of 15 medals was the record until United States swimmer Michael Phelps surpassed him with 16 in 2008.

The International Gymnastics Federation said Andrianov died on Monday in his hometown of Vladimir after suffering for years from a neurological disorder.

After retiring from competition, Andrianov became a successful coach in Japan, working with Naoya Tsukahara, the son of his long-time rival and friend Mitsuo Tsukahara.

Andrianov's guidance helped Japan, inspired by Tsukuhara, to win the team gold medal at the Athens Olympics in 2004.