Dicko Dominates at Kazakhstan Barysy Grand Slam, Japan’s Olympic Contenders Impress

The final day of the Kazakhstan Barysy Grand Slam in Astana was filled with excitement as the heavyweights took to the tatami inside the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace. Fans flocked to the stadium in the capital to witness the highest levels of judo.

In the -90kg final, neutral athlete Yahor Varapayeu faced off against Olympic silver medallist German, Eduard Trippel. Varapayeu, aged 27, displayed a moment of brilliance securing his first grand slam gold medal since 2018. Kazakhstan Judo Federation Vice President, Saken Mussaibekov, awarded the medals.

The -78kg final saw Chinese world silver medallist Zhenzhao Ma take on the young German, Anna Monta Olek. Ma, aged 26, emerged victorious after making an impact on Olek’s leg. She welcomed her first Grand Slam gold since 2022 and was awarded her medal by IJF Education & Coaching Director, Mohammed Meridja.

Japanese Olympic champion Aaron Wolf showcased his skills in the -100kg final against Swiss national Daniel Eich. Wolf, aged 28, demonstrated his trademark Uchi-mata, solidifying his intention to defend his Olympic title. The medals were awarded by Kazakhstani judoka and 2009 world champion, Maksim Rakov.

The competition concluded with Japanese judo practitioner Saito Tatsuru triumphing over Tajikistan national Temur Rakhimov in the +100kg category. The victory held great significance for the 22-year-old Tatsuru, who was awarded his medal by Olympic silver medallist, Dr Askhat Zhitkeyev.

As the Kazakhstan Barysy Grand Slam comes to an end, all eyes now turn to the upcoming World Judo Championships in Abu Dhabi next week.