Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – Antonio Coruña Melián, a foundational figure in Canary Islands judo and a former competitor in lucha canaria, has died at the age of 76. The news, confirmed on April 1, 2026, has cast a shadow over the sporting community in the archipelago.
Coruña Melián’s impact extended far beyond the mat. He was a pioneer who not only excelled as an athlete but also dedicated his life to developing the sport and nurturing generations of judokas. He served as president of the Canary Islands Judo Federation and founded the Judo Club that bears his name.
Born on August 10, 1949, in the San José neighborhood of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Coruña Melián’s athletic journey began with lucha canaria, a traditional Canary Islands wrestling style. He started training with his brothers, José and Andrés, at the young age of nine. At 16, he transitioned to judo, guided by his brother Andrés and master Amado Ramos, quickly becoming a leading force in the nascent Canary Islands judo scene.
Coruña Melián’s achievements as a judoka were significant. He was the first judoka from the Canary Islands to compete internationally, representing Spain for ten years. He secured four Spanish championships, winning titles in Barcelona (1969), Gijón (1970), San Sebastián (1971) and Madrid (1979). He also earned a silver medal at the Mediterranean Games, further solidifying his place in Spanish judo history.
Beyond his competitive success, Coruña Melián was deeply committed to the growth of judo within the Canary Islands. He founded the Judo Club Antonio Coruña, providing a training ground for countless athletes at the Pabellón Municipal “Víctor Miranda Perez” in San Fernando de Maspalomas. His dedication to fostering a strong federative structure within the region was instrumental in elevating the sport’s profile both nationally and internationally.
Ramón Suárez Ojeda, the Sports Councilor of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, highlighted Coruña Melián’s “extraordinary sporting personality, capacity for effort, and dedication,” emphasizing the lasting impact he had on Maspalomas and the wider region. Suárez Ojeda stated that Coruña Melián “leaves an indelible mark that will remain forever in San Bartolomé de Tirajana.”
Coruña Melián’s leadership as president of the Canary Islands Judo Federation, a position he held since its founding in October 1994, was marked by the consolidation of important projects and the achievement of notable sporting successes. He was known for his approachable demeanor, his commitment to service, and his unwavering belief in the values of sport – respect, discipline, and camaraderie.
His early involvement in lucha canaria, a deeply rooted cultural tradition in the Canary Islands, provided a foundation of athleticism and competitive spirit that served him well throughout his judo career. The transition from the wrestling ring to the judo mat demonstrated his versatility and adaptability as an athlete.
The passing of Antonio Coruña Melián represents a significant loss for the Canary Islands sporting community. He is remembered not only as a champion but as a mentor, a leader, and a passionate advocate for the development of judo. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of athletes in the region.
The Canary Islands Judo Federation has not yet announced details regarding memorial services. Further updates will be provided as they develop into available.
