Second Round of the Khaled Bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship Kicks Off Today at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai

Dubai: The second round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, featuring competitions in the No-Gi division, will take place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai today. Organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, the championship will gather elite athletes from leading clubs and academies across the UAE.

A significant addition to this round is the inclusion of the under-12 category in the No-Gi competitions for the first time, aiming to attract a broad spectrum of emerging talents that represent the future of the sport in the UAE.

Fahad Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: “The second round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, dedicated to the No-Gi division competitions, marks a significant step towards the sustainable development of the sport. Introducing the under-12 category is a significant step, fostering young talent and cultivating a culture of excellence among the next generation of athletes.”

“We anticipate that the second round of the championship will build on the unprecedented success of the first, with strong public attendance, athlete and club participation, community engagement, and extensive media coverage. We look forward to witnessing the impressive skills, strategies, and unique techniques showcased in the No-Gi competitions. We are confident that this platform will nurture a promising new generation of champions,” added Al Shamsi.

“The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship is organized over 5 rounds across various emirates, offering a unique platform that encourages wide participation from athletes, fans, and families. Beyond talent discovery and the creation of champions, it fosters a community that pursues healthy and active lifestyles. The championship plays a pivotal role in preparing future champions who will continue to lead the UAE’s achievements in Jiu-Jitsu at the continental and global levels.”

Al Shamsi further highlighted the championship’s comprehensive ranking system which promotes investment in talent and skills development, involving the maximum number of competitors across diverse age and weight categories. This system enables clubs and academies to accumulate points and vie for the title at the final round of the championship.

Bushra Al Shehhi, Group Chief Human Resources Officer at ADIB and Chairman of Kawader, remarked on the partnership with the Federation: “At ADIB, we believe that sports have the ability to elevate societies and inspire individuals. By partnering with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation to sponsor the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, we are not only supporting a sport; but we are also investing in a platform that promotes values of discipline, respect, and perseverance among young generation. We are excited to be at the forefront of this initiative, encouraging young athletes to achieve excellence both on and off the mats.”

Zayed Obaid Al Kaabi, coach of Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club, added: “We place significant emphasis on the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, with 114 athletes participating in the second round of No-Gi competitions. This experience is new for our under-12 category, inspiring them to adapt quickly and refine their skills. This pioneering platform offers them valuable opportunities.”

“The championship provides a superb chance for our club’s athletes to gain experience and exhibit their talents at the highest levels. I am confident that including the under-12s in the competition will pave the way for a new generation of national jiu-jitsu stars.”

Sultan Al Hosani of Al Wahda Club, competing in the adult 77 kg category, added: “We are proud to participate in this round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship and are determined to give our best effort. No-Gi competitions demand more speed, technique, and adaptability. This presents a great opportunity for us to develop our skills. These competitions enhance participation and enthusiasm, showcasing the athletes’ diverse skills and contributing to the formation of a robust new generation of jiu-jitsu athletes.”