The -78 kg preliminaries concluded with two judoka standing out above the rest. Beatriz Freitas (BRA) advanced with confidence, while Kurena Ikeda (JPN) displayed the same precision that earned her a world medal. Both reached the final after strong, controlled performances, setting up an exciting showdown between two athletes in peak form.
Final, Beatriz Freitas (BRA) vs Kurena Ikeda (JPN).

Final

Beatriz Freitas (BRA) vs Kurena Ikeda (JPN)

The contest remained finely balanced for most of the opening four minutes, until the brilliance of Japanese ne-waza, especially in the women’s categories, made the difference once again. It was ippon for Kurena Ikeda through an unbreakable armlock, so gold for Japan, the second in two days, from just two athletes entered. That’s 100% success!

Gold medallist, Kurena Ikeda (JPN).

Bronze Medal Contests

Kaila Issoufi (FRA) vs Zanet Michaelidou (CYP)

Dominant throughout, Issoufi forced two penalties against her opponent before scoring with sumi-gaeshi and securing the hold-down for ippon. A bronze medal for the French judoka, following her silver in Lima, meant it was an impressive Pan-American tour for Kaila Issoufi.

Bronze Medal Contest, Kaila Issoufi (FRA) vs Zanet Michaelidou (CYP).

Inbar Lanir (ISR) vs Metka Lobnik (SLO)

Though Lanir appeared stronger, her balance wavered under pressure and Metka Lobnik capitalised beautifully with a sode-tsurikomi-goshi for yuko, enough to claim the bronze. After gold in Lima, this medal confirms the excellent form of the Slovenian judoka.

Bronze Medal Contest, Inbar Lanir (ISR) vs Metka Lobnik (SLO).
Medals, cheques and flowers were presented by Ms Yuri Alvear, Member of the IJF Sport Commission, Education Director of the Panamerican Judo Confederation and Three time World Champion, and Mr Gerardo Guerrero, Grades Director of the Judo Federation of Mexico.

Final (-78 kg)

Bronze Medal Fights (-78 kg)

See also