M.O.D UAE Claims Victory At AJP Tour Dubai Jiu-Jitsu Championship

M.O.D UAE emerged victorious at the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship, held at Shabab Al Ahli Club on Sunday. Commando Group and Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club secured second and third places, respectively. This year's event saw increased participation, with 74 clubs and academies from around the world, compared to 64 last year.

On the final day alone, 310 male and female athletes competed in both amateur and professional divisions. The championship was attended by several dignitaries, including Youssef Abdullah Al-Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Mohamed Hussain Al Marzooqi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at 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 praised the winners: "This round of the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship has been a great success. 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 emphasised how competing against seasoned athletes sharpened skills crucial 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."

Paulinho Baraúna, coach of Commando Group, expressed pride in his team: "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 competitions help us identify areas for improvement. We’re progressing every day."

International Participation

Kastriot Mustafi from Swiss club Ruckus JJ won gold in the professional 120kg category. He shared his excitement: "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."

Women Competitors Excel

Hessa Al Shamsi from Al Wahda Jiu-Jitsu Club won gold in the 55kg professional women’s category. She 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."

The sixth edition of this championship highlighted UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation's efforts in organising top-tier events featuring international athletes alongside Emirati champions who have earned global recognition.

Ali Omar Al Balushi from Dubai Sports Council remarked: "We are pleased to be part of the sixth edition of the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship. This event underscores 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," continued Al Balushi," which supports athletes across all age and weight categories. Today we see many Emirati champions competing internationally thanks to high standards of organisation." He concluded by expressing eagerness to continue partnering with UAEJJF for future championships.

With inputs from WAM