Dan Powell Crowned World Champion as GB Shines at IBSA World Championships

British Judo’s VI team wrapped up the IBSA World Championships in spectacular style, with Dan Powell becoming World Champion for the first time, and Kirsten Taylor and Jack Hodgson both securing fifth-place finishes.

Dan Powell (Phoenix Judo) had two goals heading into this week: to extend his remarkable podium streak to 15 consecutive competitions, and to finally capture the elusive world title. No small feat, but with the mindset and skillset that Dan possesses, even the highest ambitions are achievable.

A Paralympic and World Championship silver medallist, Powell can now proudly add World Champion to his name.

Competing in the -95kg J1 category, Powell cruised through the preliminary rounds without ever needing to shift out of second gear.

His dominance is a testament to the class and experience he has cultivated over 15 years at the elite level of Judo, earning him a place in the World Championship final for the second time in his career.

Determined not to settle for silver again, Powell dug deep, combining grit, composure, and world-class ability to finally claim his place at the top of the podium, beating the current Paralympic champion.

A landmark moment for a remarkable athlete!

The newly crowned world champion reflected on the win just hours after stepping off the mat, saying: “It’s mental, isn’t it? It still hasn’t really sunk in yet.”

“It’s been a few hours now since getting my hands on this. I’ve been in the sport at an elite level for 15 years on and off, and to finally have a title to my name, it feels absolutely incredible.”

“To actually do it at a World Championships and beat the Paralympic champion, you know, in that final, it means absolutely everything. It’s just an incredible feeling, I can’t believe it, getting that win right at the end in the final, it’s something I couldn’t have really comprehended, but I woke up this morning and just went ‘stuff it’, you know, I’m doing it today.

“A bit of belief goes a long way.”

To achieve the level of success in Judo that Dan has, it requires not just his dedication but the unwavering support of those around him.

“I want to thank the people who are genuinely in my team”, he said.

“My partner’s amazing, she just helps me out with everything, keeps me on the straight and narrow, and has to put up with me a lot of the time when I’m tired from training and whatever.

“Ian Johns obviously, the best manager on and off the mat that I could ask for. John Prescott, for keeping me in one piece this week after a few injuries and illnesses. Chris Barry, not just behind the camera but for putting everything into how I need it, the format I need it through feel, getting on the mat and doing all that.

“Evan (Molloy) as well, as a training partner back in Walsall, and also for warming me up today, putting his body on the line for me unselfishly.

“They’re my team, and they’re the ones who I want to thank.”

Kirsten Taylor (Tayside Judo) reached the bronze medal match, her best-ever performance at a World Championships. After finishing seventh in 2023, her fifth-place finish this year marks a significant step forward in her career.

While she narrowly missed out on a podium finish, this achievement is a testament to her skill and the dedication she brings to her training. It’s a result she can be immensely proud of.

Jack Hodgson (Grimsby Judo) brought our incredible week to a close with a performance to be proud of. The former Junior World Champion has been a consistent presence at the top of his category for years, and this result only strengthens his standing among the world’s best.

While he narrowly missed out on a bronze medal, his display was full of quality, a true reflection of his talent and the hard work he puts into the sport.

Paralympic Head Coach Ian Johns reflected proudly on the team’s performance, saying, “What do you say to a World Championships like that!

“The team have performed brilliantly and I couldn’t be any prouder than I am right now.

“We had final block fights for all five fighters, which is incredible. The medalists thoroughly deserved their world medals, a piece of history that will live forever.

“Dan’s Gold medal was unbelievable, but we always have a chance with the team we have around us – John Prescott, Chris Barry, Jamie Williams and all the staff back home that have helped to keep the team competitive at all levels.

“Dan has dedicated his life to judo, and I have no doubt this will rival his Paralympic silver medal, that’s for sure!

“We hope that we have done the nation proud and that we can inspire as many people as possible that if you are visually impaired, then the sport of judo is for you.

“We simply could not compete at this level without the incredible support we receive from British Judo, The Judo Trust, UK Sport and the National Lottery.

“Next up for the team will be the Egypt Grand Prix in July, closely followed by the European Youth Para Games in Turkey – both events will hopefully feature new fighters.”

Congratulations to all five of our athletes for their incredible performances at the 2025 IBSA Judo World Championships, and to the dedicated coaches and support staff whose hard work helped make these achievements possible. A fantastic success all around!

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