Tbilisi, Georgia – Robert Florentino of the Dominican Republic achieved a landmark victory at the Judo Grand Slam in Tbilisi on March 20, 2026, securing a bronze medal in the -100 kg category. This win marks the first time a male judoka from the Dominican Republic has medaled at a Grand Slam event.

Path to Bronze

Florentino earned his bronze medal by defeating Nika Kharazishvili of Georgia in the repechage. He secured the win with an ippon at 3:46 in the match. This victory follows a fifth-place finish at the Grand Prix Upper Austria 2026 on March 6, 2026.

Historical Significance

This medal represents a significant milestone for Dominican Judo. Prior to Florentino’s achievement, only María García had won a medal for the Dominican Republic at a Judo Grand Slam, earning a bronze in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on June 9, 2012, in the -52 kg category.

Recent Results

Florentino’s recent successes include a gold medal at the Bolivarian Games 2025 Individuals on December 1, 2025, and another gold at the Santo Domingo Panamerican Open 2025 on June 28, 2025. As of March 23, 2026, he is ranked 38th in the world in the -100 kg category with 968 points and 73rd in the -90 kg category with 720 points.

Upcoming Competition

Florentino is scheduled to compete next at the Guatemala Senior Central American and Caribbean Cup 2026, from March 28-29, 2026.

FAQ

What weight category did Robert Florentino compete in?

Robert Florentino competed in the -100 kg weight category.

What is the significance of Florentino’s medal?

We see the first Grand Slam medal won by a male judoka from the Dominican Republic.

Where did Florentino win his bronze medal?

He won the bronze medal at the Judo Grand Slam in Tbilisi, Georgia.