New faces stole the show on the opening day of the Karate One Series A Guadalajara as four athletes claimed memorable victories in the third event of the season of karate’s major open competition circuit.
Mexico, Brazil, Japan and the Dominican Republic celebrated gold medals after a day full of close contests and breakthrough performances.
Jesus Francisco Garcia Garcia wins first senior gold
Mexico’s Jesus Francisco Garcia Garcia delighted the home crowd by taking the men’s Kumite +84 kg title. He defeated Enes Garibovic of Croatia 4-1 in the final to secure the biggest victory of his senior career.
The gold medal is the first in the senior ranks for Garcia Garcia. His previous best results included the U21 continental title in 2025 and gold at the 2025 Karate One Youth League in Monterrey.
Brenda Pereira earns maiden Karate One title
Brazil’s Brenda Pereira captured the women’s Kumite +68 kg gold after edging Antonella Navarro of Chile following a 2-2 draw in the final.
It is the first Karate One gold medal of Pereira’s career. A three-time continental champion and the reigning PKF champion, the Brazilian added another major achievement to her growing list of international successes.
Ryuki Takao impresses in men’s kata
Japan’s Ryuki Takao claimed the men’s kata title with a commanding 5-0 victory over Rey Chinen of the United States.
The win is especially remarkable as it comes in only his second international appearance. Takao delivered confident performances throughout the day to earn his first Karate One gold medal.
Maria Dimitrova returns to the top
The women’s kata title went to Maria Dimitrova of the Dominican Republic, who defeated Rita Marques of Portugal 3-2 in a closely contested final.
One of the most experienced athletes in the field, Dimitrova is a three-time continental champion and the current PKF title holder. The victory ends a long wait for another Karate One gold medal, with her previous triumph dating back to the 2015 Karate One Premier League in Almere.
