The Moscow Olympics was marred by a US-led boycott that saw Japan, South Korea and West Germany declining to participate. This had a big impact on judo. Japan’s absence inevitably meant the competition level would be lower (Japan usually wins at least half the gold medals on offer). But it also meant more chances for other countries to win, and this was certainly the case in the heavyweight division, where Japan had two bona fide superstars.
1980 Moscow, +95kg: Angelo Parisi (FRA)
1980 Moscow, +95kg: Angelo Parisi (FRA)
1980 Moscow, +95kg: Angelo Parisi (FRA)
The Moscow Olympics was marred by a US-led boycott that saw Japan, South Korea and West Germany declining to participate. This had a big impact on judo. Japan’s absence inevitably meant the competition level would be lower (Japan usually wins at least half the gold medals on offer). But it also meant more chances for other countries to win, and this was certainly the case in the heavyweight division, where Japan had two bona fide superstars.