For several years now, Japanese judokas have been trying to find the key to defeating Teddy Riner. Once again unbeatable during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Frenchman saved the French team during the final fight of the team competition, precisely against Japan. Faced with this major problem, the Japanese federation is doubling down on ideas.
Find more technique
Since 2007, leg attacks have been prohibited by the regulations of the international federation. But according to information from the Spirit of Judo relayed by The Team they could resurface during the next Japanese national championship, the Zen Nihon.
The idea would be to give back to its heavyweights the technique they have lost, for the benefit of an ever more imposing and athletic physique. By reintroducing leg attacks – with the hands, and under certain conditions – fighters in the highest weight category would be forced to find a much more developed technical palette to face any fighter, including the lightest .
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Distrust of the international federation or attempt to restore judo to the spectacular aspect it has lost in recent years? In any case, Japanese judo does not want to accept being dominated by the indestructible Riner and plans to use all means to regain its legendary greatness.
