Lee Claims World Gold as Tasoev Secures His Third World Title in Baku
Hyeonji Lee claimed her first world title at +78kg, defeating former champion Romane Dicko to complete a dominant day. At +100kg, Inal Tasoev delivered a spectacular ippon against home favourite Ushangi Kokauri to secure his third world title and retain the red backpatch.
Today marks the conclusion of the individual competition at the Baku World Judo Championships, where the heaviest competitors take center stage in Azerbaijan. Prior to the final bouts, a traditional flag-passing ceremony took place to mark the event's ending, as Azerbaijan passed the IJF flag to Kazakhstan. Astana is scheduled to host the World Championships in 2027.
At the +78kg weight class, 19-year-old Hyeonji LEE showcased her dominance throughout the competition, successfully earning ippon in every contest. With a World bronze under her belt from the previous year, LEE was confident that this was her moment to secure the red backpatch. She faced off against Romane DICKO, a former World Champion and familiar with the podium.
DICKO aimed to regain her title and become a two-time World Champion. Displaying a strong groundwork performance today, could she replicate her previous success?
In the final, LEE maintained her impressive form and overcame DICKO with a waza-ari that transitioned into a hold down. The Korean secured her place in history with this remarkable achievement. IOC Member Ms Yael ARAD presented the medals to Hyeonji Lee. In the +100kg category, reigning double World Champion Inal TASOEV returned to Baku to claim his third title, feeling assured as he progressed through the draw.
His opponent was Azerbaijan's own Ushangi KOKAURI. As the crowd backed him, he felt a mixture of pressure and belief that a home World title was within reach. In the +100kg final, TASOEV delivered a defining moment of pure judo, scoring ippon and achieving his incredible third World title. He will wear the red backpatch for another year.
A commanding finish underscored his status as the man to beat. Tasoev expressed his emotions, stating, "I don’t really like the phrase ‘three time World Champion’; I’ve simply become World Champion once again and experienced those emotions again." Azerbaijan's Minister of Youth and Sport, Mr Farid GAYIBOV, presented the medals to Inal Tasoev.
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