ZAGREB, Croatia (September 13) — The 2025 World Championships kicked off in Zagreb, showcasing fierce competition across four weight classes: 61kg, 70kg, 86kg, and 125kg.

Electric Quarterfinal Showdowns!

At 125kg, defending European champion Giorgi Meshvildishvili (AZE) proved unstoppable, dominating Vlagyiszlav Bajcajev (HUN) with an impressive 7-0 victory.

In a nail-biting match, Robert Baran (POL), a four-time European medalist, staged a spectacular comeback against Mohsen Siyar (GER). Trailing 3-0, Baran scored crucial late takedowns to snatch a 6-3 win.

Shamil Sharipov (BRN), the Asian bronze medalist, showcased his skills with a perfectly-timed counter lift, knocking Abdulla Kurbanov (UWW) onto his back, securing a fall in two minutes.

World champion Amir Hossein Zare (IRI) showcased his prowess with a technical superiority win, outclassing Solomon Manashvili (GEO) 10-0.

Rising Stars Light Up the Mats!

In the 61kg division, teen sensation Jax Forrest (USA) delivered an electrifying performance, advancing to the semifinals after a notable 13-8 victory over Taiyrbek Zhumashbek Uulu (KGZ). With two 4-point takedowns and solid defense, he held off a late charge.

Zavur Uguev (UWW), who was down 2-1 against Assylzhan Yessengeldi (KAZ), roared back with a gut-wrench technique for a math-altering 13-2 finish.

Kum Hyok Kim (PRK) made quick work of Leomid Colesnic (MDA), winning 10-0 in just 1:32.

Intense Battles at 86kg!

Hayato Ishiguro (JPN), a former world U20 champion, edged out Arsenii Dzhioev (AZE) in an enthralling 86kg quarterfinal, finishing 11-8 despite a challenging back-and-forth.

Kamran Ghasempour (IRI) stunned Ibragim Kadiev (UWW) in a tightly contested match, scoring a decisive takedown to secure his semifinal spot with a narrow 5-4 victory.

Zahid Valencia (USA) maintained his momentum, crushing Ivars Samusonok (LAT) with a swift 10-0 victory, marking his third straight win by technical superiority.

Unforgettable Matches at 70kg!

Austin Gomez (MEX) was on the brink of history, racing to a 6-0 lead against reigning champion Nurkozha Kaipanov (KAZ). However, Kaipanov pulled off a late comeback, sealing a heart-wrenching 10-8 victory that left the crowd in disbelief.

Tulga Tumur Ochir (MGL) advanced smoothly with an 11-0 win over Akaki Kemertelidze (GEO) in dominating fashion.

Day 1 Wrap-Up!

With thrilling bouts and dramatic victories, Day 1 of the World Championships in Zagreb set the stage for a spectacular tournament filled with unforgettable moments. As competitors push towards gold, fans can expect even more adrenaline-pumping action in the days to come!