Arun Kumar (IND) was among those who capitalised early, progressing to the quarter-finals confidently. There, however, he was stopped by Orif Abdulloi (TJK), who had not been counted among the morning’s favourites. Yet, in a category suddenly lacking its leading name, places were available for those prepared to step forward.
In pool B, expectations had centred on Jack Yonezuka (USA) but it was Giovanni Esposito (ITA) who emerged from a tightly contested section to set up a semi-final against Abdulloi. The Tajik judoka continued his impressive run, securing victory and booking a place in the final.
The lower half of the draw unfolded more in line with predictions. Shakhram Ahadov (UZB), already a two-time grand slam winner, rose to the occasion. In an all-Uzbek semi-final, he overcame compatriot Elbek Tojiev (UZB), delighting the home crowd and ensuring local representation in the gold medal contest.
The final therefore brought together Ahadov and Abdulloi, host nation ambition against emerging momentum. The contest proved extremely tight, neither judoka able to impose clear dominance. Backed by the full support of the crowd, Ahadov searched for the decisive opening but could not quite find it. In golden score, with everything still hanging in the balance, it was Abdulloi who made the difference, confirming his outstanding day and securing the gold medal.
Uzbekistan’s medal hopes did not rest on Ahadov alone. One bronze medal was guaranteed for the home nation, as Mukhammad Jumaev (UZB) and Tojiev met in an all-Uzbek contest. It was Tojiev who secured his place on the podium, scoring a yuko to edge past his teammate.
For the second bronze medal, Shusuke Uchimura (JPN) faced Esposito. This time, the outcome was more decisive. After first scoring a yuko, Uchimura followed up with a clean ippon to seal victory and claim the final medal in a category that had delivered both opportunity and confirmation in equal measure.
Final (-73 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-73 kg)
