Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 Begins With Over 1,000 Athletes Competing In Al Ain

The Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 began today at the ADNEC Centre in Al Ain. Organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), this three-day event will run until August 3. The championship has attracted over a thousand athletes from more than 60 countries, showcasing elite grappling talent. This initiative is supported by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and falls under the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) umbrella.

Day one saw professional division matches advance to the semi-finals, with athletes delivering intense performances. Many secured spots in the finals, aiming for 2,000 AJP ranking points and significant cash prizes. The audience was enthusiastic, witnessing high-level grappling skills on display.

Saeed Al Dhaheri from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Tareq Al Bahri of IVSM, and Kenneth Milimo Nganga, Kenya's Ambassador to the UAE, attended the opening day. Their presence underscored the event's international significance and support from various sectors.

Tareq Al Bahri stated, "The Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship is a valuable addition to our impressive roster of local and international events and a new chapter in the sporting legacy we are building in Abu Dhabi. We have ensured the championship is staged at the highest level, offering grappling athletes a professional platform to showcase their talent on the world stage, right from the heart of the global capital of jiu-jitsu."

Abdullah Saqr Abdullah from M.O.D Academy competed in the 85 kg professional division. He remarked on their preparation for this high-level competition: "We began preparing for this championship well in advance, knowing it would be a high-level and brand-new competition that demands great focus. That raises the level of challenge, especially as we aim to earn as many ranking points as possible."

The official championship shirt was revealed during a press conference at ADNEC Centre Al Ain yesterday. As the event progresses into its second day tomorrow, youth and amateur divisions will begin their matches. The final day promises thrilling playoffs and finals to crown top grapplers globally.

Event Highlights and Future Prospects

The successful participation of athletes from over 60 countries highlights Abu Dhabi's capability in hosting international sports events at high standards. Tareq Al Bahri noted that today's performances showcased advanced techniques reflecting years of dedication to grappling.

The championship continues to build on Abu Dhabi's reputation as a global hub for jiu-jitsu. With more action expected over the next two days, participants are eager to demonstrate their skills further as they compete for top honours.

With inputs from WAM