Commando Group steal show in Abu Dhabi

The 15th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship witnessed an electrifying display of skills by amateur athletes during its fifth day.

Commando Group proved to be a dominant force in the division. Following closely, A.F.N.T clinched the second spot, and Sharjah Self Defence Sports Club secured a third-place finish.

Sunday’s competitions, which took place at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, featured intense competitions in the amateur category at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

These competitions included white and blue belts, men and women athletes representing clubs and academies from around the world. The competitors showcased their A-game during the tournament, leaving the audience impressed with their technical prowess and unwavering determination.

Sunday’s competitions were attended by  Abdulmunem Alsayedmohamed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Mohammed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and Chairman of the Championship Organising Committee; Brigadier Mohammed Bin Dalmouk Al Dhaheri, board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Salem Mohammed Al Darei, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Global Market; Ahmed Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Executive Director of the Support Services Sector, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Sagiyev Kuat, President of the Kazakhstan Jiu-Jitsu Association.

Dhaheri said, “Dedicating an entire day to amateur competitions strengthens the tournament’s standing as an ideal global jiu-jitsu platform. While amateurs have participated in the championship before, we allocated a full day to them in response to the increasing demand.

“This change highlights the growing interest in both jiu-jitsu and the ADWPJJC and promotes inclusivity and provides opportunities for amateurs to showcase their talents and skills in the global arena and paves the way for aspiring amateurs to advance in their jiu-jitsu careers.”

“The championship continues to unite people from various cultures and backgrounds, facilitating meaningful interactions between them. This mirrors the UAEJJF’s commitment to fostering positive communication through the medium of sports,” added Dhaheri.

Sagiyev Kuat, President of the Kazakhstan Jiu-Jitsu Association, expressed his delight with the success of Kazakh athletes and the growing international participation in the championship. He said, “I am thrilled beyond words that Kazakh athletes are performing exceptionally well.”

“Jiu-jitsu was previously dominated by a few nations, but that no longer seems to be the case. More nations, international clubs, and young athletes are getting involved in the sport. Abu Dhabi’s efforts in promoting the sport globally are truly commendable, whether through organising major international events or uniting the international jiu-jitsu community under one umbrella,” added Kuat.

Russian Maria Odintsova, who won gold representing Kyrgyzstan Top Team in The Women’s Gi / Blue / Amateur / 49kg division, said, “I have participated in multiple international tournaments, but the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is unlike any other. It’s the best in terms of professional organisation, international participation, and, of course, the amazing crowd.”

Stefan Lazarevic of Serbia who won gold for A.F.N.T in the Men’s Gi / Blue / Amateur / 120kg division, said, “It’s phenomenal to be crowned in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is the gateway to a glorious career in jiu-jitsu. The UAE and Abu Dhabi have set exceptional standards in organising and hosting major jiu-jitsu tournaments.”

Elsewhere, Brazilian Gabriel Do Santos Nagera, who won gold for Alliance International in the Men’s Gi / Blue / Amateur / 62kg division said, “I am proud of this great achievement. Winning the gold medal in the 62 kg weight category is a significant milestone in my life. Now that I am a World Professional champion, I am very optimistic about future competitions.”

The championship continues on Monday, with competitions in the Masters category (over 30 years) for those with blue, purple, brown, and black belts, and will run until Tuesday.