The boys at Fighting Films have done a tremendous job of producing the International Judo Federation's World Circuit series on Sky. At long last someone with a bit of commercial acumen has portrayed Judo in its best light and given it a chance of becoming more main stream. Judo is a difficult sport to get to grips with as a spectator if all you see is close fought gripping fits however if you see plenty of quality throws and armlocks you cannot help but be impressed and want to see more.
For me the quality of pure Judo has been on the decline over the past 5-6 years however I have to say that the quality of judo in the last two World Cup Tournaments has been spectacular and as good as I have seen in all my years watching and competing in this magnificent sport.
Players like Sobirov from Uzbekistan not only bring spectacular Russian style wrestling techniques to the table but some fabulous traditional Judo throws on both sides and all angles. On his way to the final at the Rio Grand Prix he won by 5 different Ippon's and five different techniques. Elco Van Der Geest at -100kg has developed into a strong skilled fighter who scores some powerful throws - massive throw on the Japanese fighter in the final at Rio. The Mongolian fighter at 66kg is amazing so all in all Judo is in great shape and I hope the improved coverage now lets the rest of the world appreciate this.
