Nurlykhan Sharkhan Triumphs in Men's -100 kg Judo Elimination Round

In a gripping encounter at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Kazakhstan's Nurlykhan Sharkhan emerged victorious in the Men's -100 kg Elimination Round of 32, defeating Belgium's Toma Nikiforov. The match, held at the Champ-de-Mars Arena on August 1, captivated fans as Sharkhan displayed exceptional skill and determination.

The contest started with both athletes showcasing their techniques, but it was Sharkhan who gained the upper hand early on. After a series of exchanges, he executed a spectacular maneuver that earned him an Ippon, the highest score in judo, just 3 minutes and 52 seconds into the bout. This decisive victory propelled Sharkhan into the next round of the competition.

Sharkhan, who weighed in at 99.8 kg, currently holds the 23rd rank in the world and recently placed 7th at the World Judo Championships in Doha, 2023. His opponent, Nikiforov, weighed 99.5 kg and ranked 22nd globally, having previously clinched the top spot at the Tashkent Grand Slam 2021.

Referee Vyacheslav Pereteyko from Uzbekistan officiated the match, ensuring a fair and competitive environment. Sharkhan's victory not only showcased his prowess on the mat but also highlighted the growing strength of Kazakhstani judo on the world stage. With this win, he continues his journey in pursuit of Olympic glory, inspiring young athletes back home in Kazakhstan.