The competition saw the return of former world champion Nemanja Majdov and the confirmations of two reigning world champions, Arman Adamian and Inal Tasoev.
On the third day of the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, heavyweights like these judo titans took to the mat. And the stakes were high.
In the -90 kg category, Serbian Majdov reigned supreme with a fantastic waza-ari golden score – winning the gold medal in spectacular fashion – his first in four years.
“In 2016, I was a Junior, it was my first competition in -90 kg, and I won a Grand Slam medal here. So this is my first senior Grand Slam medal in Abu Dhabi. So I am very happy and I always feel very good in Abu Dhabi, the organization is perfect, everything is perfect,” Majdov said.
Gergely Gulyas, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office of Hungary, awarded the medals.
In -78 kg, Italian superstar Bellandi had an extraordinary day by reaching the final. She won the gold medal for Italy.
The medals were awarded by Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Aref Alawani. Guest of the IFJ and member of the board of directors of Missoni Ltd, Tania Missoni presented the checks and flowers.
“When people talk to me and say ‘I like your judo, I like your judo’, for me it’s like a medal. Like the kids here, they’re so cute, really cute,” Bellandi said.
Arman Adamian, the world champion, was on fire all day in -100kg, and the gold medal match was no different. He fought his way to victory with unparalleled determination and skill.
He received his medal from Haruki Uemura, IFJ EC member and Kodokan president.
Portugal’s Nunes threw beautifully and managed to win the coveted gold medal. A great victory for Portugal and an incredible display of friendship.
She received her medal from the president of the IFJ Kata Commission, Franco Capelletti.
Another world champion, Inal Tasoev, continued his impressive performance throughout the day, and it all culminated with a spectacular ippon in the +100kg final, securing him the Abu Dhabi gold medal in a way that demonstrated his dominance.
He received his medals from Cosmin Balcacean, guest of the IFJ.
2023-10-27 02:32:40
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