On the other side it was the Japanese Komei Kawabata who eliminated all the competition. Like his teammates, Kawabata demonstrated a wide range of techniques and standing-to-ground sequences. Completely in control, with an allied force of flexibility and power, in pure Japanese style, he joined Talibov for yet another final with a Japanese presence.
With both athletes looking for the low ippon-seoi-nage, it was an entertaining final, that from time to time looked like randori as they were both relaxed. That didn't mean that there was no power involved, but just that they were looking for the beautiful movements. At that game, Komei Kawabata still showed more ability to throw and even he couldn't score, although he unbalanced his opponent several times. Normal time concluded with two shido for Talibov when Kawabata only had one to his name. Unfortunately for Talibov the third penalty came after a few seconds of golden score. This gold medal for Kawabata was gold number seven for Japan.
Maksims Duinovs (LAT), having won his repechage contest, faced Alisher Samanov (UZB) to reach the podium. With eight seconds to go only, after a sequence where techniques were coming from both sides, it was Maksims Duinovs who performed a low tai-otoshi for ippon and the bronze medal.
Jaemin Choi (KOR) and Aaron Santamaria Rodriguez (ESP) qualified for the bronze medal contest. The medal went to Spain with an o-uchi-gari at the edge of the competition area, perfectly controlled by Aaron Santamaria Rodriguez.
Final (-90 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-90 kg)
Final Results (-90 kg)
