Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu World Tour Debuts In Xi'an With 900 Athletes Competing

The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu World Tour (ADGS) is set to debut in Xi’an, China, from 18th to 20th October, 2024. This event marks a significant step in the tour's global expansion. Around 900 athletes from 30 countries, including 25 from the UAE, will compete in various divisions. The competition is part of the 2024/2025 season and includes different belt categories and the Masters division.

The ADGS has become a leading global competition, attracting top athletes and new talents. The decision to expand into Xi’an responds to the increasing demand for high-level jiu-jitsu events in the region. Martial arts have deep cultural roots in China, making this event likely to boost participation among Chinese athletes.

China has emerged as a crucial market for jiu-jitsu's growth. Previous AJP events have significantly increased the sport's popularity there. The inclusion of Xi’an in the ADGS calendar aims to enhance Chinese athletes' visibility on the global stage, allowing them to compete with world-class competitors.

Tarek Al Bahri, General Manager of International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), highlighted the importance of this event: "Xi’an is a key stop in our tour to expand jiu-jitsu’s presence in China, where the sport has seen notable growth in recent years. The success of our previous events paved the way for this debut in Xi’an. It’s a reflection of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to spreading jiu-jitsu across Asia. We are confident this event will inspire future generations of athletes and enhance the global profile of the sport."

The AJP series has gained momentum in China, with past events drawing over 50 million views across Chinese media platforms. These competitions have provided Chinese athletes with opportunities to compete internationally, fostering local talent and strengthening ties between China and the global jiu-jitsu community.

The ADGS event in Xi’an will also celebrate jiu-jitsu's rich cultural heritage by blending its values with Xi’an’s historical significance as an ancient city on the Silk Road. This highlights jiu-jitsu's ability to bridge cultures and promote international cooperation.

Future Stops on the Grand Slam Tour

Following Xi’an, the ADGS will continue its journey with stops planned in Sydney, Tokyo, Rome, and London before concluding with a grand finale in Abu Dhabi in May 2025. Abu Dhabi remains dedicated to solidifying its status as a global hub for jiu-jitsu by providing a platform for athletes worldwide to compete at elite levels.

With inputs from WAM