Host Azerbaijan get the first gold at the Judo Grand Slam in Baku
Azerbaijan's Yashar Najafov won the 66 kilo category in just 13 seconds at the Grand Slam in Baku on Friday.
Transcript
00:00 Welcome to the first day of the Haidar Alayeb Judo Grand Slam in Baku, a city of stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
00:07 The event was officially opened by the International Judo Federation, alongside local officials who welcomed the global judo family to their beautiful country.
00:16 The local judo fans were enthusiastic, cheering on judoka and engaging in activities hosted by the local federation.
00:24 In the 48kg category it was world number one Assunta Scutto of Italy versus home favourite Leila Alayeva.
00:30 Although Alayeva put up an incredibly tough fight, a bit of clinical groundwork secured gold for the Italian superstar.
00:37 Azerbaijan's Deputy Minister of Youth and Sport Ms. Mariana Vasalieva awarded the medals.
00:48 To win when I am tired is a great result for me because it means that I am improving and I am so happy for this gold.
00:55 The 60kg category saw Gamzat Zairebekov and Ramazan Abdullaev face off.
01:04 After a close final and a Waza-ari scored from a hold down, the friends embraced in a true display of judo values.
01:11 IJF Vice President Dr. Laszlo Toth was on hand to award the medals.
01:17 And in the 52kg category, Japan's Kisumi Omoro put up a determined fight against the lightweight Olympic champion Distria Krasniki
01:25 in a close contest that lasted deep into overtime with a tactical victory going to Japan.
01:31 IJF Director General Mr. Vlad Marinescu awarded the medals.
01:36 In the 66kg category local hopes were high once again as Yashar Najafov took the stage to win gold.
01:45 Najafov took the stage in the gold medal contest against Takeshi Takeoka.
01:49 And after only 13 seconds he gave the ecstatic crowd exactly what they came to see, bringing the gold to the host nation with this massive Uchimata.
01:59 The crowd went wild inspired by this amazing display of judo.
02:12 The medals were awarded by Azerbaijan's NOC General Secretary Mr. Azar Alayev.
02:17 In the final category of the day it was Nora Jakoba versus Eteri Lipateliani.
02:36 The Olympic champion took the victory with a Waza-ari.
02:40 Her medal was awarded by IJF Head Referee Director Mr. Florin Daniel Leskow.
02:44 Azerbaijan has always been known for fiery passion and powerful judoka and the team today certainly lived up to that reputation.
02:51 And that's a wrap for day one of the Haydar Alayev Judo Grand Slam in Baku.
02:55 Join us again tomorrow for more exciting judo action.