The bronze medal contests also brought together an exciting mix of styles and nations with Alisher Samanov (UZB) facing Vadim Ghimbovschi (MDA), and Paul Friedrichs (GER) meeting Luka Javakhishvili (GEO). Each of these judoka had shown flashes of brilliance earlier in the day, setting the stage for a thrilling and unpredictable conclusion to the category.
Final
Jesse Barbosa (BRA) vs João Segatelle (BRA)
It is always challenging to face a teammate, someone you know inside out. The desire to win, mixed with the reluctance to lose, can make for a complex duel. Yet from the very first grip, both athletes committed to the fight fully. Segatelle thought he had taken the lead with a yuko from a counter-attack but the score was annulled after video review. Despite several attacking exchanges, each accumulated two penalties. Ultimately, Barbosa found the breakthrough with a deep ippon-ko-uchi-gari, rolling his teammate onto the side for yuko. Time ran out for Segatelle to respond, handing Barbosa the title and crowning a superb collective performance from Brazil.
Bronze Medal Contests
Paul Friedrichs (GER) vs Luka Javakhishvili (GEO)
Following Javakhishvili’s direct hansoku-make in the semi-final, victory and the bronze medal went to Paul Friedrichs (GER).
Alisher Samanov (UZB) vs Vadim Ghimbovschi (MDA)
Samanov took control of the contest immediately with an early yuko from a left-sided o-goshi. With strong ko-uchi-gari attacks and hip movements, he maintained steady pressure, keeping his opponent at bay. Despite Ghimbovschi’s efforts to come back, Samanov held firm and secured his place on the podium.
Final (-90 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-90 kg)
