+100 kg: Tasoev Reigns Supreme in the Heavyweight Division

The men’s heavyweight category provided a fitting finale to the 2026 Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam. Double world champion and current title holder Inal Tasoev (RUS) had looked untouchable throughout the day, progressing through the draw with authority and showing no signs of vulnerability.

Final: Inal Tasoev (RUS) vs Ushangi Kokauri (AZE)

Standing opposite Tasoev in the gold medal contest was 2018 world silver medallist Ushangi Kokauri (AZE). Unlike some of his earlier matches, Tasoev approached the final with greater caution and tactical discipline. Nevertheless, he remained firmly in control, securing a Yuko advantage and protecting it until the final gong.

The victory highlighted not only Tasoev’s technical quality but also his maturity, composure and strategic intelligence. With this triumph, he captured his eleventh Grand Slam gold medal, further strengthening an already remarkable record on the World Judo Tour.

Reaction from the Champion

Following his victory, Inal Tasoev reflected on both his performance and the atmosphere inside the arena:

“I am incredibly happy and satisfied with my performance today because I truly enjoy the energy and support from the spectators here. After competing at this level for many years, I have learned how to stay focused. The attention does not distract me; instead, it motivates and inspires me. It is also very rewarding to see such positive reactions to our team’s performances on social media. That kind of support is always appreciated.”

Bronze Medal Contest: Magomedomar Magomedomarov (UAE) vs Tieman Diaby (FRA)

The first bronze medal match featured Magomedomar Magomedomarov (UAE) and Tieman Diaby (FRA), both determined to finish the tournament on the podium.

The contest remained scoreless throughout regular time and extended into golden score. It was during the opening exchange of extra time that Magomedomarov found his opportunity, successfully countering Diaby to register the only score of the match.

The result earned him his second Grand Slam medal, arriving four years after his first podium finish and rewarding years of perseverance and dedication.

Bronze Medal Contest: Erik Abramov (GER) vs Jakub Sordyl (POL)

The second bronze medal encounter brought together Erik Abramov (GER) and Jakub Sordyl (POL), who had claimed the Dushanbe Grand Slam title only a week earlier.

Sordyl appeared to hold the initiative from the opening exchanges, but as always in judo, momentum can shift at any moment and victories often come through a variety of pathways.

The decisive moment arrived during ne-waza. In the transition phase of the final exchange, Sordyl gained a crucial advantage and quickly secured control on the ground. Holding Abramov for ippon, he sealed the victory and collected his second Grand Slam medal in consecutive weeks, adding a bronze medal to his recent gold.

Medal Presentation

Medals, prize cheques and flowers were presented by Mr Vladimir Barta, Head Sport Director of the International Judo Federation, together with Mr Alibek Bokayev, State Coach for Judo in Kazakhstan.

Final (+100 kg)

Inal Tasoev (RUS) defeated Ushangi Kokauri (AZE)

Bronze Medal Contests (+100 kg)

Magomedomar Magomedomarov (UAE) defeated Tieman Diaby (FRA)

Jakub Sordyl (POL) defeated Erik Abramov (GER)

Final Results (+100 kg)

1. Inal Tasoev (RUS)

2. Ushangi Kokauri (AZE)

3. Magomedomar Magomedomarov (UAE)

3. Jakub Sordyl (POL)

5. Tieman Diaby (FRA)

5. Erik Abramov (GER)

7. Losseni Kone (GER)

7. Grzegorz Teresinski (POL)