Rin Maeda secured the women’s 70-kilogram judo gold medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games on October 1, following a quarterfinal match marred by an unprecedented biting incident involving China’s Tang Jing.
The Quarterfinal Biting Incident in Nagoya
During the opening exchanges of the 70-kilogram quarterfinal, Tang Jing bit Maeda’s left upper arm while attempting to escape a hold-down. Television broadcasts captured Tang continuing to bite through the judogi for more than 20 seconds until the referee signaled a halt.
Maeda immediately protested the action, displaying distinct teeth marks on her arm to match officials. Under International Judo Federation rules, biting constitutes a direct rule violation classified as an action contrary to judo spirit and safety, carrying an automatic disqualification.
Tang Protests Disqualification After Accidental Contact
Following a video review and consultation, officials disqualified Tang, handing the match to Maeda. Tang reacted with visible confusion, asking officials why she was penalized and protesting that her teeth had only accidentally touched her opponent.
Tang’s coaching staff similarly argued that the contact was unintentional. Taiwanese media outlet ET today reported that Tang questioned the decision repeatedly on the mat before leaving the competition area, while international coverage focused heavily on the unusual nature of the disciplinary action.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999x301:1001x303)/Maeda-Rin-Tang-Jing-asian-games-10226-3742a406534849ebb7afa473c2a181b6.jpg "Tang Jing Disqualified After Biting Rin Maeda in Asian Games Judo Match")
Maeda Wins Gold in 70-Kilogram Division
Despite the physical pain and the disruption caused by the incident, Maeda advanced through the remaining rounds of the tournament. She ultimately claimed the gold medal in the women’s 70-kilogram division, overcoming the shock of the quarterfinal confrontation to secure the championship.
National Federations Prepare for International Circuits
The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games brought together elite regional judo competitors for multi-sport competition across Japan. Following the conclusion of the tournament events, national federations prepare for upcoming international circuits governed by the International Judo Federation calendar.
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