Abu dhabi: The 17th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship kicked off today at the Mubadala Arena in the UAE capital under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. The championship runs until November 22, bringing together more than 10,000 male and female athletes from over 130 countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the opening day saw competitions in the Adult Amateur category (above 18 years) and the Masters Amateur category (above 30 years) for white and blue belts. The contests took place in a lively atmosphere with strong crowd attendance, reflecting the growing popularity of jiu-jitsu across the UAE and around the world. More than 1,000 male and female athletes competed in the amateur division, showing the sport’s wide reach both locally and internationally, and the diversity of ages and experience among participants.
Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee, expressed that the strong turnout in the amateur category demonstrates that jiu-jitsu is more than just a sport. It has become a culture that unites people around shared values. The presence of over a thousand athletes from across the globe signals Abu Dhabi’s status as a global hub for this sport, built on excellence, respect, determination, and perseverance.
The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend Renzo Gracie, owner of the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy, noted the passion exhibited by participants regardless of their experience level. He highlighted that the championship provides a platform for self-discovery and skill enhancement, underscoring Abu Dhabi as an inspiring, world-class setting for jiu-jitsu.
Abdulrahman Abdelhaq, a blue belt athlete from Baniyas Club and gold medallist in the 56 kg amateur division, shared that winning was a significant moment in his career. He emphasized the championship’s role in offering athletes the opportunity to test themselves on an international stage, highlighting the community’s belief in hard work and equal opportunities.
Najat Alghamdi from Saudi Arabia’s ECT Fight Club KSA, a blue belt who won bronze in the 49 kg amateur division, described the championship as a pivotal experience for testing skills against international athletes. She praised the event’s organisation and the camaraderie among competitors, viewing the championship as a confidence-building and skill-improving experience.
The championship continues with Para Jiu-Jitsu competitions featuring top athletes of determination from around the world. The Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival will also commence, welcoming young athletes from various nationalities in a family-friendly environment that embodies the community spirit of the championship and its role in nurturing future talent.