22 January 2026
Last weekend, Angelo Parisi was officially awarded 9th Dan by France Judo, in front of a highly supportive and knowledgeable crowd. It was a fitting setting for a moment of real significance in French and international judo history.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest judoka of all time, Angelo Parisi is often named among the very best heavyweights the sport has ever produced — if not the best. His judo was instantly recognisable: stylish, intelligent, and relentlessly attacking. Even against bigger opponents, Angelo’s ability to move seamlessly left and right, combining power with grace and perfect timing, made him truly exceptional.
This promotion to 9th Dan recognises not only his competitive achievements, but his lifelong contribution to judo — as an ambassador of the sport, a technician of the highest level, and a role model for generations of judoka.
We were also incredibly fortunate to welcome Angelo Parisi to our club in Aberdeen some years ago. Away from the competition mats, he embodied everything judo stands for. He was kind, humble, and generous with his time, speaking with everyone and sharing stories and experiences off the mat.
He spent memorable time with several of us, and especially with my son Tristan, who absolutely adores him — a moment that left a lasting impression and perfectly summed up the man behind the legend.
A champion in every sense.
The gentleman of judo.
21 January 2026
