Can Abylaikhan Zhubanazar resist the experienced Alan Khubetsov

At the Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam 2024, Abylaikhan Zhubanazar emerges as the frontrunner in the -81kg category, enjoying the advantage of competing on home turf. With none of the top eight finishers from the previous year present, Zhubanazar eyes a podium finish to solidify his position in the Olympic rankings, buoyed by his bronze in Dushanbe.

Challenging Zhubanazar is the seasoned 2019 world champion Sagi Muki (ISR), seeded second and aiming to capitalize on his recent bronze at the Tbilisi Grand Slam to secure a spot in the Olympic rankings.

Joao Fernando (POR), seeded fourth, enters the competition with confidence after securing two WJT medals this year. However, a formidable first contest against 2016 Olympic champion Khasan Khalmurzaev (AIN) awaits him, setting the stage for a gripping showdown.

The eighth seed Mikhailo Svidrak (UKR) faces an uphill battle, needing a strong performance to secure an Olympic qualifying position. His journey includes a challenging matchup against 2018 world silver medallist and seasoned competitor Sotaro Fujiwara (JPN) in the second round.

Unseeded contenders like Medickson Del Orbe Cotorreal (DOM), Dominic Ressel (GER), and Aurelien Bonferroni (SUI) pose a threat to the established order, particularly as they aim to break into the Olympic qualification positions. Additionally, the experienced Alan Khubetsov (AIN), boasting ten grand slam medals, remains a formidable contender capable of clinching a podium finish.