Participating athletes during the press conference.

The event, scheduled to take place at the Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi this Friday, will feature intriguing matchups between elite Jiu-Jitsu and grappling stars from around the world.

Combat sports enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the tournament, which comprises two main events and two co-main events, along with several distinctive fights.

The competitions have a unique ruleset, promising an enthralling experience for attendees from the initial fight bell to the event’s conclusion.

At a press conference attended by Mohammed Jassim Al Hosani, Member of the Organising Committee and the official matchmaker for ADXC, participating fighters, organisers, along with partners, supporters, and technical partner AJP, also revealed plans to expand the tournament’s reach with the launch of the third edition in Brazil on March 2.

“As the global capital of jiu-jitsu and grappling, Abu Dhabi is dedicated to providing unparalleled support for this sport and organising exceptional events that embody the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect,” said Hosani. “We call on all athletes participating in this edition to showcase their skills, and determination, and achieve a noteworthy accomplishment, inspiring future generations of athletes.”

Hosani emphasised the inclusion of Emirati players in the tournament, with the likes of Mohammed and Omar Al Suwaidi. Furthermore, he mentioned that Khaled Al Shehhi, the national team player and Asian Games gold medallist, will be part of ADXC3.

Headlining the event are Aljamain Sterling and Chase Hooper. Sterling, a UFC bantamweight with a title-winning history, will face Hooper, a skilled cage fighter with outstanding jiu-jitsu skills, promising a captivating matchup. Sterling expressed his excitement during the press conference, saying, “I am super excited for Friday night. Chase Hooper is a tough fighter, a high-level guy. Another highlight is he’s a blackbelt. I am gonna prove myself in the fight as I seek to end the fight with a submission and showcase my skills in this unique platform.”

Hooper also didn’t hide his excitement for the fight and stated that he would put on a great show. “I am from a small town and a small gym, but here in Abu Dhabi now, I have been training since I was a small kid. I was training hard. I am excited to be doing the sport I love, jiu-jitsu. I can’t be more excited for Friday night,” added Hooper.

In the co-main event, the current Abu Dhabi World Pro champion, Bruno Lima of Portugal, faces off against his 2020 European Open final nemesis, Manuel Ribamar. Lima and Ribamar’s rematch promises outside passing and a captivating encounter, following their thrilling bout in 2020. Lima expressed his excitement, saying, “I am here to show that my place is here. I may not be the most famous guy, but in the end, my jiu-jitsu always proves itself, and I can’t wait to prove it once again.”

Ribamar shared his enthusiasm, saying, “I am very happy to have been chosen to participate in this edition of the tournament, I am also pleased that the next event will be held in my country, Brazil, which will give the Brazilian players a showcase of skills and open new horizons. I believe they will be excited to participate.

“I am confident that I am fully prepared to fight the fight, despite being the first time fighting inside the cage, but Jiu-Jitsu skills remain the most important factor, and I look forward to showcasing my special style and skills in defence and attack.”

As the countdown begins for the adrenaline-fuelled night, fans, fighters, and officials alike are poised for an unforgettable experience at Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship 2.