In pool B, Ruslan Pashayev (AZE) will carry the hopes of the host nation. Although he will not be the only Azerbaijani judoka in the category, he is the country’s highest-ranked representative. Yet it would be impossible to assess the potential of this section of the draw without mentioning Hifumi Abe (JPN). His presence adds another dimension to what could be a remarkable second day of competition, one which may once again see brother and sister Abe claim gold medals.
World number two Nurali Emomali (TJK) will undoubtedly be one of the athletes to follow, despite a disappointing seventh place at the recent Asian Games. Perhaps that event was simply part of his preparation for Baku. We will find out soon!
Finally, in pool D, Ramazan Abdulaev (RUS) begins as the favourite. He has reached the podium at each of his last four events, in Georgia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and Switzerland, but has yet to secure a victory. Will Baku be the place where he finally goes all the way?