Judo Grand Slam 2025: Incredible Uzbek spectacle as Japanese women do the clean sweep
Day 1 of the 2025 OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam, and the Yunusabad Sport Complex was packed with judo crazy fans who came to witness one of the nation's favourite sports, now especially popular after Diyora Keldiyorova's historic Olympic gold.
She featured in a spectacular opening ceremony showcasing local culture, before the event was officially opened by Mr Marius Vizer, the President of the International Judo Federation, alongside Uzbekistan Sports Minister Dr Adkham IKRAMOV.
At -48kg MIYAKI Kano won an All Japan final against compatriot YOSHIOKA Hikari. A tactical victory started the momentum for the female Japanese team. IJF President Mr Marius VIZER was on hand to award the medals.
At -60kg Ayub BLIEV reacted with lightning fast speed to counter Azerbaijan's Turan BAYRAMOV An impressive display of action-reaction saw Bliev take the gold. He was awarded his medals by Icona Capital CEO Mr Max-Hervé GEORGE.
At -52kg Japan's TSUBONE Nanako took on Spain's Ayumi LEIVA SANCHEZ. Cleverly sacrificing her weight to throw the Spaniard, Tsubone took her first ever Grand Slam gold medal. She was awarded her medals by Uzbekistan Sports Minister Dr Adkham IKRAMOV.
'I never fought her before, but I studied her on video and was prepared I'm very happy, I want to tell that to the people who cheered for me', said TSUBONE.
At -66kg Ramazan Abdulaev silenced the adoring crowd as he defeated home favourite Bekmurodov A brilliant moment of groundwork earnt Abdulaev the gold medal. The medals were awarded by OCA Vice President, Mr Otabek UMAROV.
At -57kg, another All Japan final, this time OMORI Akari took on ONO Moa. A beautiful technique brought the day to a suitable climax, classic Japanese judo. She was awarded the gold medal by Harvest Group CEO, Mr Almaz ALSENOV.
The local team were on fire today, the pure passion of the Uzbek judoka was only matched by the incredible energy of the fans! Multiple medals for the home team gave the crowd so much to cheer for. It's no wonder Uzbekistan has fast become one of the great judo nations! We'll see you tomorrow on day 2!
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