Khasan Khalmurzaev snatches the gold with second Russian miracle

It looks like a dejavu and perhaps it is, because Russia won its second gold medal this tournament. Khasan Khalmurzaev didn’t have to fight Tchrikishvili or Nagase, but did have a tough list of rivals to overcome, but took the gold medal when he needed it. The European Champion, coached by Dmitry Morozov of the team led by architect Ezio stunted to its second world miracle this week.

In such a competitive field, the most competitive of all weight categories, this is the kings category. Khasan Khalmurzaev won the gold medal in his battle with the strong Travis Stevens who is skilled on the ground but can surprise as he stunned Tchrikishvili in the semi final. But not this when Khalmurzaev launched his point for ippon. USA is left with silver, for the fourth time in history for the men. Russia, won its fifth gold medal in two Olympic cycle, an amazing performance since Gamba was introduced to take over the management of the team. After his success in 2012, he could practically get all resourced he wanted, but it was not about the resources, but about that only seven days where his marshalls had to shine, and they do.

Khalmurzaev reached the final via victories over Saeid Mollaei (IRA), Mohamed Abdelaal (EGY), 2012 bronze medallist Antoine Valois-Fortier (CAN) who finished seveth today and defeated the surprise of the four semi finallists Sergio Toma (UAE) who defeated Nagase in the quarter. As Stevens outsmarted Tchrikishvili (GEO) with a strangle, it was the Georgian who had to fight Nagase and the Japanese won..again. Bronze for Nagase and Sergiu Toma who was able to overcome Italian Matteo Marconcini who had an amazing day and booked four wins.

What a day for Russia again at the Carioca Arena in Rio. The preparation was apparently optimal, given the result, but the differences are so small these Olympic seemed to be unpredictable again.