Later this month, highlight of judo events is of course World’s in Budapest. Hungary is expecting to host the best of the best what judo has today. One of those best names is Lukas Krpalek, current Rio 2016 Olympic Champion, who will fight for the first time at the World Championships in his new category. 26-year-old Krpalek (CZE), decided to accept the new challenge in his judo career and step to 100kg division.

100: Your first impressions about 100kg

Lukas: The biggest thing about 100kg is more power, athletes are really heavy to fight with, but the power of those judokas is just remarkable.

100: Difference between -100 and 100kg

Lukas: This is a good question and as I used to fight in -100kg I can tell you from my experience that it’s combination of good techniques, moments and strength, while in O100kg you will need to have lot of power to “survive”. 

100: Did you achieved your goal at the Europeans or you were expecting gold?

Lukas: This time I’ve accepted the bronze medal as it was my first European Championships after I’ve changed my category. For me this is a good start in the new category, and in future I expect more medals at the World and European Championships. I’ll try to do my best to happen it as soon as possible.

100: In what stage of preparation are you?

Lukas: I’m preparing in Japan for the upcoming World Championships in Budapest, the conditions are the best that you’ve can get at this moment. Hard trainings, hard and amazing fights, the same one which I expect from my opponents in Hungary.

100: Your role model?

Lukas: For me it’s the Kosei Inoue, he won everything what is possible in judo. The reason why I choose him is as he is not only a great champion, he is a true legend, great personality and person that I want to become as well.

100: Your pump up music before fights?

Lukas: I like to listen music that motivates you, it’s very hard to pick up my favourite song, I like all kind of music, but those motivational are the best. Every person just felt that right one.

Lukas Krpalek was 2014 U100kg World Champion as well, two time bronze medalist, double junior World Champion coached by Petr Lacina.