Pedigree and Power: Heavyweight Dominance at the Baku World Judo Championships

Heavyweights took to the tatami in Baku to close out individual competition at the World Judo Championships, offering a brisk demonstration of how quickly established reputations can be eclipsed by raw momentum. Before the heavy divisions began their march, the customary ceremonial duties took place as Azerbaijan handed the flag of the International Judo Federation over to Kazakhstan, which is scheduled to host the event in Astana in 2027. Once the administrative protocol concluded, focus returned to the tatami.

In the women’s +78kg division, nineteen-year-old South Korean fighter Hyeonji Lee staged a display of absolute efficiency, clearing her path to the final by scoring ippon in every contest. Her opponent, former world champion Romane Dicko of France, brought elite groundwork credentials to the contest in her bid to regain top spot on the podium. Lee remained completely unfazed by her adversary's history, scoring a decisive waza-ari before holding Dicko down to collect her maiden world title and the right to wear the red backpatch. International Olympic Committee member Yael Arad presented the medals.

The men’s +100kg final delivered an equally emphatic statement of authority. Inal Tasoev entered the tournament intent on securing his third world crown, controlling every bout on his way through the draw. His final obstacle was home favorite Ushangi Kokauri of Azerbaijan, who enjoyed energetic backing from the Baku crowd. Yet vocal support proved insufficient against technical execution, as Tasoev scored a clean ippon to quiet the arena and lock up his third global championship. Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sport, Farid Gayibov, awarded the medals.

With the individual weight classes now decided, attention shifts to the upcoming mixed team event. Delegations will field three men and three women, combining forces in pursuit of collective world honors.

Written by Christiane Hofreiter christiane.hofreiter@alpineweekly.com