Yotov has already shown his potential with a bronze medal at the Zagreb Grand Prix in 2025. Reaching this Hungary Grand Slam final marks another important step in his progression at senior level.
Ulziibayar arrived in Budapest with no significant international reference point, ranked outside the world’s top 500. His progress to the final therefore stood as one of the most unexpected stories of the opening day.
Unimpressed by the occasion, Ulziibayar was the first to pose a threat, with several small attacks that unsettled Yotov but without producing a score. Yet it was Yotov who struck meaningfully first, producing a lightning fast counter for a waza-ari. Once the early Mongolian attacks had been absorbed, the Bulgarian showed complete confidence in his judo and in his ability to counter. He did so a second time but this time for a faultless ippon and the gold medal.
Immediately after the final, Boyan Yotov explained, "It was a great pleasure to compete here and I'm happy I finally realised my visualisations. I was just in the moment, performing at my best and letting the energy run through me. Recently I read a book by Robin Sharma, ‘The Saint, the Surfer and the CEO,’ which taught me to stop competing for medals and focus on becoming the best version of myself instead. Having the children supporting me was a special feeling, even more special than being on the tatami! I love that they get excited and I hope some of them will compete with me in the future. The atmosphere and training hall were incredible too and I'm glad I could perform at my best here. As for the upcoming world championships, you'll have to ask my coach, but I certainly hope I'll be there!"
Before the final, Denis Vieru of Moldova took on Nizami Imranov of Azerbaijan in the first bronze medal contest. Vieru has been one of the most prominent names in the category having won Olympic bronze in Paris in 2024, world bronze medals in 2019 and 2022, and the European title in 2023. Kelvin Ray of France and Ryusei Seki of Japan contested the second bronze medal contest.
Drawing on his experience at the highest level, Vieru claimed a tactical victory over Imranov, forcing his opponent to receive three penalties. The second bronze medal contest also ended with a tactical victory, Seki prevailing over Ray.
Final (-66 kg)
Bronze Medal Fights (-66 kg)
