Judokas dominate the competition with a total of 7 gold medals.
The prosperous city of Ulaanbaatar, the heart of Mongolia, a land known for its landscapes, its tradition and its love of judo.
The Steppe Arena was filled with fans ready for the last day of the Judo Grand Slam.
In the 90 kg final, Russian Mikhail Igolnikov tactically prevailed over Kyrgyz Erlan Sherov.
Mohammed Meridja, International Judo Federation (IJF) Director of Education and Training, was present at the medal ceremony.
The public was delighted to receive judo stars, such as the current world champion in the -78 kg category, Inbar Lanir. Lanir, who was participating in her first competition since she won the world title last month, seemed unstoppable.
Two powerful shots secured her Grand Slam gold, dominating her Japanese opponent. Inbar Lanir is a force to be reckoned with at -78kg, and he shared her joy with her team.
Armen Bagdasarov, IJF Director of Refereeing, presented the medals.
“Amazing fans, they really love judo, no matter the country. Of course they cheer for Mongolia, but they make it very nice to compete here,” Inbar Lanir told reporters.
Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag was the local hero on the last day of the Grand Slam. In the semifinal he bowled the reigning world champion, beating Adamian at his own game.
Then, in the final, he faced judo legend Varlam Liparteliani. The crowd went wild as he once again executed a brilliant counteroffensive. The Steppe Arena witnessed a legendary scene, which Gonchigsuren shared with the future generation of judokas by taking a selfie with them.
Tsagaan Puntsag, Chairman of the Board of the Steppe Arena, presented the medal.
Batkhuyag told reporters: “I have no words to describe how wonderful it is to receive all this support. I am very happy to get my first Grand Slam gold in Mongolia, unbelievable.”
At +78kg, Tomita Wakaba edged out Raz Hershko, winning seventh gold for Japan
Moshe Ponti, president of the Israel Judo Association, presented the medals.
At +100kg, world champion Inal Tasoev showed his class, throwing and immediately securing an arm lock.
The medals were awarded by Ki-Young Jeon, IJF Director of Refereeing.
The fans packed the stadium for 3 amazing days of judo, and the home team came out to perform. Odkhuu, a heavyweight, joined the incredible finale of the Grand Slam Ulaanbaatar 2023.
