Day 2 delivered thrilling action: Megu Danno claimed her first WJT gold, Nils Stump staged a huge comeback, Szofi Ozbas impressed at -70kg, and Gauthier-Drapeau on a dramatic final. Home favourite Makhmadbekov added bronze as Abu Dhabi now awaits the heavyweights.
The city of Abu Dhabi was awash with excitement as the second day of the Judo Grand Slam took place in the Mubadala arena 0:10 At -63kg Japan’s Megu DANNO faced up against LKHAGVATOGOO of Mongolia.
Danno expertly took the fight to the ground, rolling the Mongolian and holding her down to win her first gold on the World Judo Tour.
Is she Japan’s next big star at -63kg?
IJF EC Member & Kodokan President, Mr Haruki UEMURA, awarded the medals.
At -73kg it was an epic final! Nils STUMP the 2023 World Champion went behind a score after being thrown by Tajikistan’s ASADULLOEV.
However he swiftly leveled the field with an attack of his own.
A powerful pick up then saw the Swiss Judoka score ippon and take the title here. An amazing come back from the former World Champion.
He was awarded his gold medal by UAE Judo Federation President, His Excellency Mohammed Bin Tha'aloob Al DERIE.
At -70kg Szofi OZBAS overcame Aoife COUGHLAN of Australia. The Hungarian looking strong after her move up from -63kg, threw her opponent for Waza-ari to secure her Gold Medal.
IJF Guest, Mr Timur KEMELL awarded the medals.
In the -81kg final, François GAUTHIER-DRAPEAU took on Abdul-Kerim TASUEV.
A dramatic final saw the Canadian score twice and just manage to hold out for the win!
Amazing determination from the seasoned fighter!
The medals were awarded by IJF Ambassador, Mr Albano CARRISI.
The home crowd had plenty to cheer for, as World Medallist Makhmadbek Makhmadbekov showed his class. After a fantastic day he went on to take a brilliant bronze medal.
Tomorrow it’s time for the heavyweights!