DUBAI: M.O.D UAE claimed the top spot as the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship concluded at Shabab Al Ahli Club on Sunday.
On the final day, featuring both amateur and professional divisions, Commando Group secured second place, while Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club took third.
This year’s championship saw participation from 74 clubs and academies worldwide, up from 64 last year. On the final day alone, 310 male and female athletes competed.
The third day’s events were attended by a host of dignitaries, including Youssef Abdullah Al-Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Mohamed Hussain Al Marzooqi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications, UAEJJF; Ali Omar Al Balushi, Director of Sports Events at Dubai Sports Council; and Ahmed Al Janahi, Chief Events Implementation Officer at Dubai Sports Council.
Youssef Abdullah Al-Batran congratulated the championship winners, saying: ‘This round of the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship has been a great su
ccess. The event attracted top international jiu-jitsu stars with black, brown, and purple belts, who delivered outstanding performances that captivated the audience. It also provided an excellent platform for our young talents in the youth and kids categories to showcase their skills, in line with the Federation’s focus on developing the next generation of athletes.’
Al-Batran highlighted how the championship sharpened athletes’ skills by offering them the chance to compete against seasoned competitors, crucial for their preparation for future events. He added: ‘The UAE athletes performed exceptionally well throughout the championship, earning several gold medals across various categories. I would also like to commend the clubs and academies across the country for their strong participation and support.’
Ali Omar Al Balushi, Director of Sports Events at Dubai Sports Council, said: ‘We are pleased to be part of the sixth edition of the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship. This event undersco
res the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s commendable efforts in organising world-class local, continental, and international events, featuring top international athletes as well as Emirati champions who have won international medals.
‘Dubai Sports Council values our collaboration with the Federation, which supports athletes across all age and weight categories. Today, we see many Emirati champions competing in international championships and achieving top positions, thanks to the high standards of organisation. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation to host more championships in Dubai in the future.’
Paulinho Baraúna, coach of Commando Group, said: ‘Our athletes have performed admirably. We always aim for first place, and our experienced coaching team plays a key role in that. Regular competition builds confidence and motivates the team. I am proud of our athletes who won medals today. As we prepare for the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, these competi
tions help us identify areas for improvement. We’re progressing every day.’
Kastriot Mustafi of Swiss club Ruckus JJ, who won the gold medal in the professional 120kg category, said: ‘It’s fantastic to have come to Dubai, competed in this championship, and secured the gold. Winning today after several tough matches feels incredible. The organisation was excellent, and it was a great experience to compete against such skilled opponents. I’m looking forward to coming back and competing again.’
Hessa Al Shamsi, a competitor from Al Wahda Jiu-Jitsu Club who won the gold medal in the 55kg professional women’s category, said: ‘Winning gold today is a significant achievement, especially as I prepare for the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. This victory comes after intense training and is a great boost as I gear up for the challenges ahead.’
Source: Emirates News Agency