UAE finish on top at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour concluded on Saturday at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, featuring hundreds of athletes from over 50 countries.

The event was organized by the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) Federation.

The tournament witnessed a fierce display of skill, strength, and strategy as elite competitors from around the world battled across grappling and ground fighting disciplines.

Each bout showcased the highest levels of athleticism, with nations fielding their best talents in a bid for international supremacy. Amidst this intense competition, it was the UAE that emerged as the dominant force, topping the overall standings with a remarkable total of 31,000 points.

Brazil, long regarded as a powerhouse in the world of grappling, followed closely with 30,600 points, while Russia secured third place with a solid 19,000 points. These results not only reflect the high caliber of the tournament but also shine a spotlight on the incredible rise of Emirati athletes on the global stage.

The UAE’s commanding performance is a testament to years of focused investment in sports development, world-class training infrastructure, and the strategic vision of the country’s leadership, which continues to empower local athletes to reach new heights. The success of the Emirati contingent in such a high-profile event marks a significant milestone in the nation’s sporting journey—one that signals its growing influence in the global martial arts community.

Emirati champion Khaled Al Shehhi delivered a dominant performance to claim the gold medal in the highly competitive professional division, emerging victorious after a series of intense and decisive matches.

His path to the top was paved by a combination of sheer physical power, exceptional technical mastery, and razor-sharp tactical intelligence. With every bout, Al Shehhi demonstrated why he is considered one of the UAE’s premier athletes, executing his strategies with clinical precision and an unwavering fighting spirit. His victory not only highlights his individual excellence but also stands as a proud moment for the nation, reinforcing the UAE’s growing prominence on the international martial arts stage.

Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of AJP, attended the finals and presented the awards.

Shehhi commented: “This achievement is the culmination of years of relentless dedication, sacrifice, and the unwavering support I’ve received—especially from our wise leadership, who have always believed in the power of sport to inspire and unite.

“Standing on the top of the podium here in Abu Dhabi, my home, is a feeling that words can hardly capture. It’s not just a personal victory—it’s a moment that belongs to every coach, teammate, and supporter who has stood by me through the journey.”

He continued:”The level of competition was incredibly high, with opponents representing a wide range of grappling schools and styles from around the world. Each match tested not just my physical condition, but my mental sharpness and adaptability. What made the difference today was my preparation, my belief, and my unwavering determination to make my country proud. This gold medal is more than just a symbol of success—it’s a major milestone in my career and a source of motivation to keep pushing forward.”

Pouya Rahmani, a standout in the heavyweight grappling division, also earned gold after a string of impressive performances through the elimination and final rounds.

He said: “Competing in AJP events always feels special. It’s organized at a world-class level and attracts the strongest competitors. I sensed I was performing in front of an audience that truly values this sport, which gave me a crucial motivational boost. The organization was flawless, the referees top-tier, and the conditions perfect for delivering my best.”