Dramatic Day of Judo at Humo Arena

The OTP Group Tashkent Grand Slam 2026 continued to deliver world-class judo action on Thursday, with athletes from four different nations securing gold medals at the Humo Arena. The event was preceded by an opening ceremony celebrating traditional Uzbek dance and culture, featuring an appearance by Olympic champion Diyora Keldiyorova.

International Judo Federation Leadership in Tashkent

The President of the International Judo Federation, Mr. Marius Vizer, officially opened the event. Dr. Adkham Ikramov, Minister of Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan, also addressed the attendees. A hosting agreement was signed by Mr. Vizer and Mr. Andrei Golban, President of the Moldovan Judo Federation, designating Chișinău, Moldova, as the host city for the 2027 Cadet World Championships.

Gold Medal Highlights

-63 kg: Narumi Tanioka Dominates

Japan’s TANIOKA Narumi showcased her dominance in the -63 kg category, overcoming Catherine BEAUCHEMIN-PINARD with a decisive ippon. Mr. Marius Vizer presented the medals.

-73 kg: Tajik Upset

In a stunning upset, Tajik fighter Orif ABDULLOI defeated local favorite Shakhram AHADOV in the -73 kg final. ABDULLOI secured the victory in golden score, silencing the enthusiastic home crowd.

What we have is my first time in Tashkent. For me, it’s like home. We are one team, we are not Uzbeks or Tajiks, we share the same culture, we are friends.

Orif ABDULLOI

ABDULLOI received his medal from Mr. Otabek UMAROV, Vice-President of the Olympic Council of Asia.

-70 kg: Butkereit’s Groundwork Skills Shine

Germany’s Miriam BUTKEREIT impressed with her superb groundwork skills, securing victory over French rising star Melkia AUCHECORNE in the -70 kg category.

The audience was great. Yes, I love them, because they are very enthusiastic and very encouraging. It was incredible.

Miriam BUTKEREIT

Her medal was presented by International Judo Federation Ambassador, Mr. Daniel GYURTA.

-81 kg: Rajabli Claims First Grand Slam Gold

Omar RAJABLI secured his first Grand Slam gold medal in the -81 kg category with a well-executed immobilization technique. The medals were presented by Dr Adkham IKRAMOV, Minister of Sports of Uzbekistan.

Uzbek Judo on Display

The event showcased a magnificent variety of judo, with the Uzbek judokas making their fans proud.