Tbilisi: Azerbaijani parajudoist Ilham Zakiyev has secured his position as the European champion in the J1, +95 kg category at the European Judo Championship, which is currently taking place in Tbilisi, Georgia.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Zakiyev demonstrated his dominance in the competition by defeating Moldovan Oleg Kretul in the quarterfinals. He continued his winning streak by overcoming Turkey’s G¶khan Bizer in the semifinals. Zakiyev clinched the gold medal after an impressive victory over Moldovan Ion Basoc by ippon in the final round.

This victory marks Zakiyev’s ninth time winning the European championship title, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.