Algerian judoka faces investigation after missing weight before match against Israeli opponent

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Algerian judoka Messaoud Dris missed weight at the Paris Olympics on Sunday, one day before he was set to compete against Israel’s Tohar Butbul, which sparked an investigation.

The International Judo Federation (IJF) said Monday it will probe the reasons why Dris missed weight. The bout was scheduled to be first in the men’s 73-kilogram event, but political implications around the bout led many to wonder whether the bout would happen at all.

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Jorge Cano Garcia of Spain, left, competes against Messaoud Redouane Dris of Algeria in Men's -73 kg during day 2 IJF Judo Grand Prix Zagreb 2023 gold medal match at Arena Zagreb on Aug. 19, 2023 in Zagreb, Croatia. (Luka Stanzl/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images)

Dris is the No. 14 ranked judoka in the world in the 73-kilogram division. Butbol is No. 22.

"Following the Olympic Games, a full review and investigation of the situation will be conducted and further action will be taken if needed," the IJF said.

"We believe that sport should remain a realm of integrity and fairness, free from the influences of international conflicts. Unfortunately, athletes often become victims of broader political disputes which are against the values of sport."

Israel’s war in Gaza following Hamas’ Oct. 7 terrorist attack has led to issues on the Olympic stage.

Butbol and Israel coach Guy Fogel said they believed Dris was pressured to miss the bout because of Algeria’s frayed relationship with Israel.

Israel's Tohar Butbul is pictured during the judo men's 73-kg round of 16 round bout of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Champ-de-Mars Arena, in Paris on July 29,