Abu dhabi: International Vision Sports Management (IVSM) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EDGE Group, one of the world's leading advanced technology and defence groups, to strengthen efforts aimed at expanding the global reach of jiu-jitsu through the sponsorship of tournaments organised and promoted by Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP), a subsidiary of IVSM.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was announced during a press conference held today at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by Abdulmunem Al Hashemi, Chairman of the UAE and Asian Jiu-Jitsu Federations, First Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation, and Chairman of IVSM, alongside Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of EDGE Group.
The MoU establishes a strategic partnership under which EDGE will sponsor IVSM's tournament series across Latin America, as well as the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu events, which are among the world's largest and most prominent jiu-jitsu competitions, attracting elite athletes from around the world.
The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both organisations to support UAE sport and enhance its international presence by investing in major sporting events and reinforcing jiu-jitsu's position as one of the world's leading sports. It also aligns with the UAE's vision of fostering impactful partnerships between the sports and industrial sectors.
Al Hashemi stated that the partnership with EDGE represents a significant addition to IVSM's growth journey and reflects the increasing confidence that leading national institutions place in the organisation's international events. He emphasized the shared vision and ambition to support excellence while strengthening the UAE's position as a global hub for sport and innovation.
Al Marar highlighted that supporting the community is a national responsibility and noted that jiu-jitsu embodies positive values, contributes to personal development, and strengthens family cohesion. He emphasized that more than 300,000 people practise the sport across the UAE, reflecting its growing importance within society.
The partnership is expected to enhance the experience of athletes and spectators alike while supporting IVSM's expansion into new markets, contributing to the continued growth of jiu-jitsu worldwide, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as the world's leading developer of the sport.
