In doing so, Rajabli navigated a field packed with established names. Athletes such as Somon Makhmadbekov (TJK), Sotaro Fujiwara (JPN), Vedat Albayrak (TUR) and Arslonbek Tojiev (UZB) were all considered serious contenders, yet none would contest the -81 kg final on day two in Tashkent.
In the top half of the draw, the number one seed Francois Gauthier-Drapeau (CAN) looked for a long time as though he would justify his status. The Canadian controlled his early contests with authority, appearing to be on course for another major final. However, his run was halted by Abdul-Kerim Tasuev (RUS), who delivered a composed and tactically sharp performance to claim a place in the semi-finals.
Tasuev’s momentum did not stop there. In the semi-final, he overcame Aurelien Bonferroni (SUI), who had been in impressive form throughout the day. Bonferroni had demonstrated sharp technique and strong movement in his earlier bouts but Tasuev managed to neutralise his rhythm and secure the decisive advantage.
The final therefore brought together Tasuev and Rajabli, two athletes who had carved their own path through a highly competitive field, rewriting expectations along the way. It took just one minute and thirty seconds for Rajabli to impose himself. Following seamless transition into groundwork, Tasuev attempted to control the leg but Rajabli freed himself calmly and secured an unstoppable hold-down. It was ippon and gold for the Azerbaijani judoka.
For the host nation, there was further reason to celebrate. Uzbekistan were guaranteed a medal in the category, as Murodjon Yuldoshev (UZB) and Tojiev met in an all-Uzbek contest for bronze, ensuring at least one podium finish for the home crowd. It was Yuldoshev who claimed the medal in the end but the crowd cheered for both of their athletes.
The second bronze medal contest featured Fujiwara and Bonferroni, both determined to conclude their campaigns on a positive note. After a tense and closely fought contest, it was Fujiwara who secured victory, earning his place on the podium in a category that had remained wide open and fiercely competitive from start to finish.
Final (-81 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-81 kg)
