Born: 1990
Biography:
Julia Dorny (born 20 February 1990) is a renowned German athlete, media scientist, journalist, and television presenter. She is most widely recognized for her exceptional achievements in multiple martial arts disciplines, including judo, mixed martial arts (MMA), and sumo wrestling. Dorny has emerged as a trailblazer and an inspiration to aspiring athletes around the world, becoming the only female athlete to have won championships in these three varied disciplines. Her incredible journey is defined by numerous accomplishments, as well as the challenges she has overcome to reach the pinnacle of success.
Dorny’s journey in sports began at the age of 7 when she discovered her passion for judo. By the time she turned 14, she was already competing in the German Judo League. At 17, she made her debut in the inaugural Judo Bundesliga, representing PSV Rostock. Her dedication and talent quickly earned her the prestigious black belt in judo by the age of 18. Dorny’s excellence in judo continued to grow, as she claimed multiple victories at the Berlin judo championships and secured the position of German vice-champion in the individual classification. Additionally, she achieved remarkable success in international competitions and was on track to qualify for the European Judo Championship in 2005 before an unfortunate injury prevented her participation.
During her formative years, Dorny honed her skills as a cadre athlete at the Olympic Training Center Berlin and the German Judo Federation (DJB). She also attended the renowned Werner-Seelenbinder-Sportschule, which is now known as the Schul- und Leistungssportzentrum Berlin (SLZB). Dorny’s achievements extended beyond judo when she teamed up with JC Wiesbaden, winning a bronze medal at the team championships. Currently, she is affiliated with first division club JC 71 Düsseldorf, where she continues to showcase her exceptional talent and dedication to judo.
In 2016, Dorny embarked on a new venture by exploring the world of sumo wrestling. Within a remarkably short time, she made her presence felt by claiming the German championship crown. The same year, she also achieved an impressive bronze medal at the European Championships and secured fifth place at the World Championships. In recognition of her skill and dedication, she received a shodan (1st dan) ranking in sumo wrestling in 2017. Dorny’s success in sumo continued to soar as she added several German championship titles, both in the individual and open weight categories, to her growing list of achievements. She also emerged as a standout performer at the 2017 World Games, where she finished in fifth place, and won silver at the 2019 US Open in Los Angeles.
However, it is Dorny’s inspiring journey in MMA that truly showcases her versatility and determination. She burst onto the MMA scene in 2015, winning her debut as an amateur at the German Championships (GEMMAF). The same year, she was selected to represent Germany at the prestigious IMMAF World Championship in Las Vegas, where she claimed the bronze medal in her international debut. Dorny’s consistency and exceptional talent were reflected in her subsequent performances, as she also earned a bronze medal at the IMMAF European Championship in Birmingham.
Dorny’s unwavering passion for MMA led her to further triumphs, as she emerged as the runner-up at the IMMAF European Championship in 2016 and secured the coveted title of European Champion in the same year. She continued to shine on the global stage, finishing as the runner-up at the IMMAF World Championships in 2016 and earning a bronze medal in the 2017 edition. With a fierce competitive spirit, Dorny showcased resilience and skill throughout her career, and undefeated until March 2022.
Beyond her remarkable achievements in the world of martial arts, Julia Dorny has also excelled in her pursuits as a media scientist, journalist, and television presenter. Her multidimensional talents and her ability to inspire and connect with audiences have made her a recognizable figure in the media industry. Dorny’s contributions to the field have allowed her to create a positive impact on society, serving as an inspiration to countless individuals who admire her tenacity and drive.
Throughout her extraordinary journey, Julia Dorny’s motivation and inspiration have always been rooted in her desire to push boundaries and challenge herself. Her indomitable spirit, coupled with her dedication to constant improvement, has shaped her into an exceptional athlete and a role model for aspiring female athletes. Dorny’s incredible accomplishments in judo, MMA, and sumo wrestling have not only carved her place in sports history but have also contributed to the advancement of women’s history. By breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes, she has empowered future generations of female athletes to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Awards:
– German Judo League multiple-time Berlin judo champion
– Bronze medalist at the team championships with JC Wiesbaden
– German sumo wrestling champion
– Bronze medalist at the IMMAF World Championship (MMA)
– IMMAF European Championship runner-up (MMA)
– European Champion at the IMMAF European Championship (MMA)
– IMMAF World Championships runner-up (MMA)
– Bronze medalist at the IMMAF World Championships (MMA)
– Silver medalist at the US Open in Los Angeles (Sumo Wrestling)