Abu Dhabi:The 18th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship commenced at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi, featuring competitions for male and female athletes in the amateur category across the adult and masters blue belt divisions.
According to Wam, the championship, held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, will run until November 21. It gathers more than 10,000 athletes from 130 countries, marking it as one of the largest events on the international jiu-jitsu calendar.
The opening day saw intense matches with athletes from local and international clubs vying for podium positions, surrounded by supportive spectators. This event offers athletes the chance to compete internationally, develop skills, and experience different fighting styles.
Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, noted the championship's growth and international reputation. He emphasized that the event has become a major occasion for athletes globally, offering a platform for skill enhancement and international ranking improvement.
UAE athletes showcased strong performances, benefiting from local training programs. Notably, Mansour Al Mansouri secured silver in the masters blue belt division, expressing motivation to improve further. Similarly, Brazilian athletes continued their tradition of excellence with Juliana Cidade winning gold in the women's amateur blue belt 95kg division.
The championship continues with additional amateur and para jiu-jitsu events, promoting inclusivity and showcasing the UAE's commitment to supporting athletes of determination. The event also includes various activities for families and visitors, enhancing the overall experience and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's status as a premier sporting destination.
