In another formidable performance, the triple Olympic medalist Idalys Ortiz added her three gold and six bronze medals in Grand Slam tournament , the sixth silver, during the event in Osaka.

Precisely in the great Japanese port city, Candelaria´s judoca got her first gold medal in Grand Slam, in late 2018. And, then, she got the crown in two others tournaments in a row, in Paris, France and Dusseldorf, Germany.

In her first fight on Sunday she defeated Chinese Liang Fanfan, and won by ippon. Then she quickly beat Dutchwoman Tessie Savelkouls. But third ippon was the most spectacular projection, when she lifted Brazilian Beatriz Souza over her shoulder, in less than a minute. This way she gave Cuba the only medal in the event, while Japan dominated ... with 11 of the 14 gold medals.

Then Osaka 2018 final was repeated. A year ago, the girl from Godínez neighborhood beat Japan's Akira Sone due to three penalties.

Afterwards, they met again at the Guangzhou World Master and the Tokio World Championship; both times, the one from Japan had won.

The 19-year-old Japanese girl starred in a perfect performance : she won the title at the Cadet World Cup in 2015, also at the Youth World Cup in 2017 and - recently - at the Seniors' Championship, in 2019; in fact, she is the youngest champion in the super heavyweight division.

Now they meet again again, and Akira Sone surprised Idalys with Wazari in overtime. Both left their opponents on the road until they fought for gold. Artemisa´s Idalys has become the best Cuban judoka since 2008, a legend, but in good shape and leading the world ranking, with almost 800 points. Meanwhile, the Asian girl is a star in search of strengthening.

Many followers are looking forward to watch an Olympic final between them, right in Japan. For now, they may meet again in the Word Master in Qingdao, China, in mid-December. It would be the most expected combat !

TRANSLATION BY LMMS