Whichever country organises one of the World Judo Tour events, there is always a special expectation from the public for national athletes. With a full house in Tashkent, every time an Uzbek athlete stepped onto the tatami, the noise level in the stands increased massively. This was particularly the case for Murodjon Yuldoshev who qualified for the final. It must be said that in this category, Uzbekistan really shone, since in the semi-finals Yuldoshev beat his compatriot Shakhram Ahadov.
Final, Murodjon Yuldoshev (UZB) vs Daniyar Shamshaev (KAZ)

If the public hoped for a 100% local final though, this was not the case since it was finally Daniyar Shamshayev (KAZ) who faced Yuldoshev to win the gold medal, after a very good run during the preliminary stages of the competition.

Final, Murodjon Yuldoshev (UZB) vs Daniyar Shamshaev (KAZ)

With a head-to-head in favour of Yuldoshev (2-1) and the support of the home crowd, there was a little advantage for the local competitor. The final started on a high rhythm around a strong battle for the grip. Despite the tough exchanges, a few penalties were distributed, two to Shamshayev and one to Yuldoshev.

When the last minute started, in a clever move and with anticipation, Yuldoshev scored a waza-ari with tani-otoshi. The most difficult part of the match then began: to keep that score. Supported by the public Yuldoshev managed to stay ahead to offer a great gold medal to the host nation.

Bronze medal contest, Salvador Cases Roca (ESP) vs Nils Stump (SUI)

We found Salvador Cases Roca (ESP) and Nils Stump (SUI) on the way to the first bronze medal. With a great change in direction, from uchi-mata to o-uchi-gari, Nils Stump scored a first waza-ari. He doubled the score a few seconds later with a counter attack for a clear victory.

Bronze medallist, Magdiel Estrada (CUB)

Magdiel Estrada (CUB) and Shakhram Ahadov (UZB) were set to fight for a place on the podium but as Shakhram Ahadov was unable to compete due to being disqualified earlier in the competition, Magdiel Estrada was declared the winner of the bronze medal.

Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Mr Azizjon KAMILOV, President of the Uzbekistan Judo Federation and Vice President of the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan and Mr Alisher NARBAEV, Deputy Minister of Defence and Vice President of Judo Federation of Uzbekistan

Bronze Medal Fights (-73 kg)

See also