The concluding day in Tbilisi showcased intense confrontations among judo’s most formidable athletes. Bozorov, Lobnik, and Savytskiy achieved their inaugural Grand Slam golds, while Dicko and Tasoev reigned supreme in their respective categories. Despite a valiant effort, Georgia’s Tushishvili fell short. However, the host nation secured numerous medals in a grand finale that was nothing short of spectacular.
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Fans flocked to witness the titans of judo at the 2025 Tbilisi Grand Slam, where the heavyweights took center stage.
The venue was packed to witness the most spirited day of judo encounters!
At -90kg, Umar BOZOROV staged a remarkable recovery to triumph over France’s MATHIEU. Employing an unusual technique, he secured the Uzbek gold at his first world tour event. Mr. Armen BAGDASAROV, IJF Head Referee Director, had the honor of presenting the medals.
Slovenia’s Metka Lobnik shone brightly, toppling Colombia’s Junior World Champion, Olaya, in the -78kg climax. Dominating her newaza skills, she clinched her first world tour gold. Mr Michael TAMURA, IJF Sport Director, conferred the medal upon her.
At -100kg, Anton SAVYTSKIY emerged victorious against Simeon CATHARINA following a tight skirmish. Holding down his opponent in golden score, he needed just 5 seconds to claim his debut Grand Slam gold. Olympic Champion and Georgian Parliament Member, Mr Shota KHABARELI, awarded the gold.
In the +78kg category, Olympic Medallist Romane Dicko delivered her customary formidable performance. Executing her signature move, the ex-World Champion seized gold. Mr Nicolas MESSNER, IJF Media & Judo for Peace Director, officiated the medal ceremony.
At +100kg, former World Champion Guram TUSHISHVILI aimed for glory but faced the also former World Champion, Inal TASOEV. A slim yuko score distinguished these two titans, granting Tasoev the top accolade. Truly, he is a force to be reckoned with in the +100kg category. Mr Slava SHERAZADISHVILI, Georgian Judo Federation Honorary President, bestowed the gold medal.
The spotlight wasn’t solely on the heavyweights, as Lukhumi Chkhvimiani, a lightweight and former World Champion, was celebrated by the audience for his official retirement. It’s this legacy that cements Georgia’s status as a judo powerhouse.
The heavyweights provided such an extraordinary showcase on the most action-packed day thus far, that the stadium’s roar was deafening. Multiple victories for the home team marked a fitting conclusion to this remarkable Grand Slam.
Thank you, Georgia!
Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/23/heavyweights-shine-on-final-day-of-tbilisi-grand-slam
