Welcome back to Georgia for day 2 of the Tbilisi Grand Slam 2026. The Tbilisi Arena welcomed athletes from around the world for another exciting day of competition. The atmosphere was electric as local heroes took to the tatami in pursuit of the podium.
At -63kg, current world champion Haruka KAJU of Japan faced former world champion Joanne VAN LIESHOUT of the Netherlands. With both fighters showing strong newaza throughout the day the stage was set for a true battle. In the final, however, it was KAJU who controlled the tempo, and took gold.
The Georgian judo fans were so passionate, and even though I’m not from Georgia, I felt their incredible support, which made it easier to compete. It was fun.
Referee Director of the International Judo Federation, Olympic & World Champion Ms Tina TRSTENJAK awarded the medals.
At -73kg, Leonardo VALERIANI of Italy met Valtteri OLIN of Finland in the final. VALERIANI was looking unstoppable, producing some of the day’s best ippons. In the final, VALERIANI took things to the ground instead, forcing a submission from his opponent to win his first-ever grand slam gold.
I love this place, I love Tbilisi, I love all the people in the stadium because they are so loud when they cheer, and I feel very good, yes, I like it.
His medal was awarded by Head Sport Director of the International Judo Federation Mr Vladimir BARTA.
At -70kg, Olympic bronze medalist Madina TAIMAZOVA was looking for her 4th Grand Slam gold. A perfectly timed attack saw TAIMAZOVA back on top of the podium.
International Judo Federation Sport Commission Member, and Three time World Champion Ms Yuri ALVEAR awarded the medals.
Vedat ALBAYRAK of Turkiye took gold here in Tbilisi last year and was looking to continue his streak in the -81kg category. Driven by the cheers of the crowd, ALBAYRAK clinched the victory in the final seconds, securing his gold medal.
The medals were awarded by Referee Director of the International Judo Federation Mr Raul CAMACHO PEREZ.
The crowd went wild for another home bronze medal from Giorgi LOLADZE in the -73Kg category who gave us one of the throws of the day!
Tomorrow it’s the heavyweights, we’ll see you then for Day 3.
