Georgia’s Ilia Sulamanidze wins gold at Judo Grand Prix
Sulamanidze defeated his Japanese rival Arai Dota, throwing the competitor twice with waza-ari in the -100 kg category final. Photo: International Judo Federation.
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Georgian wrestler Ilia Sulamanidze claimed a gold medal at the Judo Grand Prix in Portugal on Sunday.
Sulamanidze defeated his Japanese rival Arai Dota, throwing the competitor twice with waza-ari in the -100 kg category final.
Georgia's Sulamanidze ends a fantastic day, where he also defeated double Olympic Champion Krpalek, in the only way that was fitting - a fantastic Ippon against a strong young Japanese opponent! Earning him a brilliant Gold medal!????????????????????????????????????#JudoPortugal #Judo #Portugal #Sport pic.twitter.com/AVkFUDNC1S
— Judo (@Judo) January 29, 2023
The 21-year-old athlete’s success follows his listing at the top of the -100 kg weight category of the world’s leading athletes in December.
Sulamanidze rose to the top of the ranking after earning a gold medal at the Jerusalem Masters also earlier during the month.