The Welsh Judo Association is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Istvan Babos, a hugely respected figure within Newport Judo Club and the wider Welsh judo community.
Steve passed away in hospital on 7 August 2026, just three weeks short of his 90th birthday, following a fall at home.
Born in Hungary in 1936, Steve came to the United Kingdom as a refugee at the age of 20. He moved to Newport in 1958, where he joined Newport Judo Club and began an association with the club that would span almost six decades.
One of Steve’s greatest competitive achievements came in 1960, when he won the Goldberg–Vass Memorial Shield at the Royal Albert Hall. The event was open to the leading blue and brown belts from across the country and was contested without weight categories, making Steve’s achievement particularly notable as one of the lightest competitors in the field.
In 1962, Steve was awarded his black belt by the late Alan Petherbridge, becoming one of only 50 people in the country to hold the grade at that time.
His contribution to judo extended far beyond his own achievements on the mat. Steve went on to become Head Coach of Newport Judo Club during the 1970s, remaining in the role for more than 50 years before his retirement in 2017.
Throughout those years, Steve’s greatest passion was supporting young judoka and helping them to fulfil their potential. Under his guidance, numerous members of Newport Judo Club achieved their black belts, with many going on to represent Wales.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the sport, Steve was awarded Life Membership of the Welsh Judo Association in 1978.
Steve leaves behind an extraordinary legacy at Newport Judo Club and within Welsh judo. Generations of judoka benefited from his knowledge, commitment and passion for the sport, and his contribution will be remembered for many years to come.
Steve will be greatly missed by Eirwyn, his devoted wife of more than 60 years, his family, friends and all those across the judo community who had the privilege of knowing him.
Everyone at the Welsh Judo Association extends their deepest sympathies to Steve’s family and friends at this very sad time.