Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club win AJP Tour Jiu-Jitsu Championship title

The AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023 – Gi, organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF) in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP), concluded in an epic fashion at Al Nasr Club, Dubai.

Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club emerged as the undisputed champions, with Commando Group securing the runner-up position and A.F.N.T. grabbing a well-deserved third place.

The final day was witnessed by an electrified crowd, as intense matches unfolded among esteemed local and international professional athletes.

Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, commented on the championship, “The AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023 has exceeded expectations, attracting the best black belt athletes who delivered awe-inspiring performances. This event has propelled local talents into the spotlight, perfectly aligned with the federation’s vision of fostering a dominant generation that represents the future of jiu-jitsu in our nation.”

“This championship provides a platform for our athletes to face seasoned players and gain invaluable experience, elevating their preparation for future participations. We commend the unwavering efforts of local clubs and academies who share our vision of nurturing and investing in the UAE’s jiu-jitsu talents.”

Ibrahim Abdullah Al Hosani, coach of the UAE national team for the junior division, attributed the remarkable performance of UAE players to their unwavering dedication and top-notch training programs offered by elite clubs and state-level academies. He emphasized the year-round jiu-jitsu season, where players incessantly refine their skills and prepare for upcoming challenges, ensuring they remain ready for the competitions.

“The significance of this championship in the growth of jiu-jitsu, both locally and globally, cannot be overstated. The inclusion of infants and kids in the Dubai Tour for the first time lays a solid foundation for the continuous evolution of the sport. With a staggering turnout of 1,800 male and female participants, it is evident that families play a pivotal role in inspiring children to embrace the sport of jiu-jitsu. This heightened awareness nurtures noble values, fostering physical and mental well-being,” Al Hosani continued.

Rodrigo Valerio, Operations Manager of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro, emphasized the overwhelming participation of schools and academies from various nations, underscoring the paramount importance of the AJP championships in players’ professional journeys.

“With less than five months remaining until the 15th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, competitors worldwide are vying for a prominent spot in the AJP’s tournaments, striving to boost their ranking points and secure their place in the highly anticipated event this November,” said Valerio.

The championship showcased remarkable performances by international contenders, including Alevtina Korostileva from Moscow’s “Gymnasium Team” academy, who clinched the amateur 95 kg gold. Korostileva expressed immense satisfaction in elevating her career through this thrilling tournament.

On the national level, Sultan Al Owais, from Sharjah Self-Defense Sports, secured the gold in black belt division in the 62 kg weight category. Al Owais dedicated this monumental achievement to the UAE’s leadership, the club’s extended family, and all those who supported him on his path to victory.

Earlier, on day one, intense action unfolded in the kids, infants, and junior divisions, with Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club securing the top spot. Palms Sports Academy displayed its prowess, claiming second place, while ADMA Academy achieved a well-deserved third place. On day two, the teens, youth, and masters categories witnessed intense competitions, and Sharjah Self-Defense once again emerged victorious. Commando Group and AFNT secured second and third place, respectively.

Regarded as one of the most significant tournaments organised by Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) across multiple countries worldwide, participants in each category strive to secure the first-place position, which awards them 600 raking points. These points contribute to their qualification for the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (ADWPJJC) and the prestigious Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards at the end of the season.