Russian marvel Musa Mogushkov celebrates Grand Slam quadruple

Russian all-star Musa Mogushkov won Grand Slam gold for the fourth time as he dispatched the unfancied world number 76 David Lima (BRA) in just 36 seconds. Double world bronze medallist Mogushkov and Zagreb Grand Prix bronze medallist floored the Brazilian judoka with a beautiful tai-otoshi that was even applauded by pockets of home fans.

London 2012 Olympian Mogushkov will now be installed as the front-runner in the Russian team at U66kg for the Games while Lima can be ecstatic about his day’s work having graced a Grand Slam final in only his second outing at an IJF major.

In the first semi-final Lima benefited from an error-strewn display by Nils Stump (SUI) who accumulated three shidos in as many minutes to receive hansoku-make.

In the second semi-final former world champion Hashimoto Soichi (JPN) lived dangerously against Mogushkov as he resorted to trying to force his opponent to receive a third penalty but instead was on the receiving end of a decisive shido. As expected there was nothing between the two in a scoreless contest, until Hashimoto was penalised for dropping and had to concede the contest and an anticipated place in the final.

The first bronze medal was won by Hashimoto who salvaged a place on the medal podium at the expense of Tel Aviv Grand Prix silver medallist Giovanni Esposito (ITA). The Ippon Hunter from Japan launched the Italian for a waza-ari score with a seoi-nage in the closing seconds as he bombarded his rival with attacks and proved why he is regarded as one of the most spectacular throwers in the sport. Fans will look forward to seeing what’s next for both men with Tokai standout Hashimoto likely to be in the frame for honours at the Osaka Grand Slam next month.

The second bronze medal went to Montreal Grand Prix bronze medallist Anthony Zingg (GER) who persevered to defeat Stump after 45 seconds of golden score with a uchi-mata for a contest-winning waza-ari score.