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Grand Slam in Ulaanbaatar: Mongolian judo triumphs

Three days of high judo artistry and a host team that showed all their skills – Judo Grand Slam 2023 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Ulaanbaatar is the beating heart of Mongolia, a country known for its vast landscapes and love of judo. In the packed Steppe Arena, fans watched the grand final day of the Judo Grand Slam.

In the weight category up to 90 kilos, Mikhail Igolnikov won as a country-neutral athlete against Erlan Sherov from Kyrgyzstan. Mohammed Meridja, Director of Education at the International Judo Federation (IJF) presented the medals.

The spectators were delighted to see judo stars like the reigning world champion in the 78 kilo weight category. For Israel’s Inbar Lanir, it was her first competition since winning her world title last month.

She overpowered her Japanese opponent Mami Umeki with two powerful throws to secure Grand Slam gold.She received her medal from Armen Bagdasarov, director of judges at the IJF

“They are amazing, they love judo, no matter what country. Of course they cheer for Mongolia, but they just like good judo. It’s very nice to fight here,” said Inbar Lanir.

Israel's Inbar Lanir against Japan's Mami Umeki IJF
Israel’s Inbar Lanir against Japan’s Mami Umeki IJF

Mongolian Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag wins gold at home

Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag was in top form on the final day of the Grand Slam. In the semi-finals, the Mongolian eliminated the reigning world champion and defeated Arman Adamian with a huge counter.

He then took on judo legend Varlam Liparteliani of Georgia in the final, sending the crowd into raptures with another brilliant counterattack.The winner received his medal from Tsagaan Puntsag, CEO of Steppe Arena.

“I am speechless, this incredible support from the crowd. I am so happy to have my first ever Grand Slam gold, and here in Mongolia, unbelievable,” said Gonchigsuren Batkhuyag.

In the 78 kilo and over class, Tomita Wakaba defeated Israel’s Raz Hershko to take Japan’s 7th gold in the tournament. The medals were presented by Moshe Ponti, President of the Israeli Judo Federation.

World champion Inal Tasoev remains star of his class

From 100 kilos world champion Inal Tasoev showed who is the star of his class, he threw and secured immediately with an armbar. He was honoured by Ki-Young Jeon, Director of Referees at the IJF.

Three days of high judo art and a host team that showed all their skills. Heavyweight Tsetsentsenkel Odkhuu gave the Mongolian team another medal at the end of the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam 2023.

By Klaus