Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club dominated the opening day of the second round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Al Nasr Club in Dubai. The event, featuring No-Gi competition, brought together young athletes from leading clubs and academies across the country.
Competitors in the U12, U14, and U16 categories took to the mats on Day 1, with Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club securing the top spot. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club and Abu Dhabi Martial Arts Academy (ADMA) followed in second and third place, respectively. The action continues tomorrow, Sunday, with U18, Adults, and Masters divisions set to compete.
His Excellency Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: “the second round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship dedicated for No Gi competition offers a valuable experience for young talents, allowing them to think quickly and apply precise techniques that enhance their technical and physical abilities. This helps them improve their performance and sharpen their skills.
“This championship serves as an important platform for athletes across different age groups to test their abilities, build confidence, and develop a strong competitive mindset. It also reinforces core sporting values such as discipline, commitment, and respect, while preparing them for challenges in their athletic careers.
“The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship was the first event to introduce the Under-12 category to No-Gi competitions during its inaugural edition last year. This step was taken to help young athletes adapt to a professional competition environment early on, ensuring they develop both physically and mentally to become the future of jiu-jitsu in the country.”
Fareed Al Qaiwani, Executive Director of Al Nasr Sports Games Company, said: “We at Al Nasr Club are honoured to host this prestigious championship. We maintain close collaboration with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, and by hosting this event, we play a role in promoting jiu-jitsu. We look forward to welcoming more championships in the future.”
Glayson Bertolot, UFC Gym Coach, said: “We’re excited to be part of this event with a team of 11 athletes, and we always strive to have as many participants as possible. Competing in various championships helps our athletes gain experience and showcase their abilities, supporting our goal of developing more champions.”
Hamda Anwahi, sister of Fares Anwahi from ADMA, who won gold in the Boys U12 White 38kg category, said: “I’m proud of my brother Fares for winning gold in this important championship. His success results from his daily training and dedication to improving his skills. We appreciate the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for its support and for organising tournaments throughout the year.”
A large crowd of families and sports fans attended the tournament to support the athletes and take part in various activities that promoted community engagement, cultural exchange, and social cohesion.
