The bronze medal fights also brought together a powerful mix of styles and nations: Renat Croitoru (MDA) faced Kihara, looking to rebound from his earlier defeat, while Narek Vardanian (SWE) and Irakli Goginashvili (GBR) prepared for a showdown of their own, a repeat of the European -21 final just a few weeks ago. With four nations represented, the -73 kg category stood as a perfect showcase of judo’s global reach and competitive balance.
Final
Muhiddin Asadulloev (TJK) vs Ryusei Arakawa (JPN)
In the final, it was clear from the first grip that both judoka were ready to take risks and push the pace. The opening exchanges were fought at an electrifying rhythm that barely slowed throughout the contest. Arakawa seemed to gain a slight advantage midway through, controlling the kumi-kata and tempo but Asadulloev’s determination and timing made the difference. With less than a minute remaining, the Tajik judoka executed a perfectly timed counter for yuko, enough to secure the gold medal, an amazing victory for Tajikistan.
Bronze Medal Contests
Narek Vardanian (SWE) vs Irakli Goginashvili (GBR)
It was Irakli Goginashvili who struck first, scoring an early yuko with a low, circular o-uchi-gari that swept his opponent cleanly to the mat. The British judoka then managed the remainder of the contest with intelligence, claiming a well-deserved bronze medal.
Renat Croitoru’s (MDA) vs Keito Kihara (JPN)
This was a closely contested bout, with Keito Kihara showing flashes of the precision that earned him the world number one ranking. A beautifully executed aerial uchi-mata brought him a narrow yuko lead and despite Croitoru’s resistance and strong defence, Kihara maintained control until the end to secure Japan’s place on the podium.
Final (-73 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-73 kg)
