Salehi Lalehmarzi Hananeh of Iran claimed the title in the Female Kumite +68 kg category (Photo WKF)
Karatekas from Japan and Iran dominated the opening day of the Karate One Series A in Tbilisi. The two nations took two titles each as the new season of international karate kicked off to a roaring start.
Female Kata – Hisami Nakaji Takes Gold
Hisami Nakaji of Japan won the Female Kata final after a composed and sharp performance. She defeated fellow Japanese athlete Miko Fukuoka 5-0. Nakaji impressed the judges with strong timing and balance.
Female Kumite +68 kg – Salehi Lalehmarzi Hananeh Controls the Final
Salehi Lalehmarzi Hananeh of Iran claimed the title in the Female Kumite +68 kg category. She beat Yuliia Rusu of Ukraine 5-2 in a physical and tactical bout. Salehi Lalehmarzi took an early lead on points and managed the distance well.
Male Kata – Funada Aoi Shines in All-Japan Final
Funada Aoi of Japan secured victory in the Male Kata final. He defeated Nendai Kairi, also from Japan 5-0. Funada delivered a powerful and clean performance that earned the top scores of the round.
Male Kumite +84 kg – Ashouri Garmjani Mahdi Finishes Strong
Ashouri Garmjani Mahdi of Iran won the Male Kumite +84 kg final against Daniil Kasianov of Ukraine 3-0. The match was tight in the opening minutes. Ashouri Garmjani scored decisive points and stayed solid in defence.
The first day in Tbilisi set the tone for the 2026 season. The level was high, and the margins were small. More action is expected as the event continues.
