Petrosian, Tigran

Tigran Petrosian, known as "Iron Tigran," was the ninth World Champion (1963-1969), famous for his nearly impenetrable defensive style inspired by Aron Nimzowitsch's concept of prophylaxis. Rather than attacking directly, he excelled at neutralizing his opponents' plans through subtle, patient maneuvering, making him one of the hardest players to beat in chess history. Orphaned during World War II, he rose from sweeping streets in Tbilisi to become a national hero in Armenia, where his image was placed on the country's currency.