Shock exit: Kanikovskiy removed from IJF list

There is growing uncertainty around reigning world champion Matvey Kanikovskiy after the Russian judoka was suddenly removed from the IJF World Ranking in the U100kg category.

Kanikovskiy, who claimed the world title in Budapest in 2025, had been one of the most consistent performers on the World Judo Tour. Strong results at the European Championships, the Tokyo Grand Slam and the Tashkent Grand Slam had firmly placed him among the elite in his category.

His recent form only added to that status. Earlier this season he was still competing at the highest level, taking bronze at the Tokyo Grand Slam and showing he remained a serious contender in the division.

However, his sudden disappearance from the rankings, combined with his withdrawal from the Russian team for the upcoming European Championships in Tbilisi, has raised eyebrows across the judo world. He will be replaced by Niiaz Bilalov, who arrives in strong form after recent podium finishes.

While no official explanation has been provided, such removals are often associated with anti-doping matters. Although nothing has been confirmed, the situation strongly suggests that a doping-related issue could be behind the decision.

The timing is particularly striking. Kanikovskiy was seen as one of the leading names in the U100kg category and a potential Olympic contender, despite missing Paris due to restrictions on Russian athletes.

For now, the judo community is left waiting for clarity. Until then, the absence of a reigning world champion from both the rankings and major events remains one of the most talked-about developments on the World Judo Tour.

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