The International Judo Federation (IJF) has canceled the 2022 Kazan Grand Slam, which was scheduled to be held in Kazan, Russia in May.
In a statement titled 'Judo Wants Peace', the IJF announced the cancellation of the event, saying, "We feel sorry for the recent international situation."
IJF added, "We must unite strongly for the values of peace, friendship and unity."
The IJF's decision came after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) strongly condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a violation of the Olympic cease-fire resolution.
The IOC yesterday (25th) requested that sporting events rescheduled in Russia or Belarus be rescheduled or canceled by sports federations.
Russian President Putin was a judo enthusiast, earning his black belt at the age of 18 and even winning judo competitions in his hometown, St. Petersburg.
The IJF awarded President Putin an honorary 8th dan in 2012, and President Putin serves as the honorary chairman of the IJF.