M.O.D UAE Dominates Black Belt Category At Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2024

The 2024 Abu Dhabi World Masters Jiu-Jitsu Championship, part of the 16th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, concluded at Mubadala Arena. M.O.D UAE secured the top spot in the black belt category, with Commando Group and Kazakhstan National Academy following in second and third places. The event showcased elite athletes from renowned clubs and academies, impressing spectators with their exceptional skills.

Prominent figures attended the event to present awards to winners. These included Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri, Director-General of the General Authority of Sports; Brigadier Salem Abdullah bin Barrak Al Dhaheri, Acting Director-General of Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority; Fahad Abdul Qader Al Qassim, Director-General of the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Management Authority; Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; and Majed Abujarad, Group Executive Director of Investment Banking at First Abu Dhabi Bank.

Yousef Al Batran emphasised how this championship builds on previous successes by attracting top jiu-jitsu champions globally. He praised the black belt masters for their competitions which add significant value to the event. Athletes showcased advanced skills honed over years of experience. Al Batran noted that jiu-jitsu uniquely supports personal and professional growth across all ages.

"Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship has earned global praise from clubs, academies, and guests, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a top destination for jiu-jitsu champions. The event leaves a lasting impression on over 9,000 athletes, who return home with unforgettable memories of a unique experience. This success drives us to keep striving to meet the aspirations of the global jiu-jitsu community in future events."

Fahad Al Qassim expressed satisfaction with the championship's atmosphere, noting its growth in international participation and academy involvement. He highlighted its status as a major global jiu-jitsu event. "Organising an event of this scale and hosting thousands of athletes and fans to the highest standards is a commendable achievement. I am honoured to be part of this vibrant atmosphere and crown the champions who have accomplished impressive feats."

Champion's Perspective

Ruslan Yakubov from Uzbekistan Jiu-Jitsu won gold in Men’s GI / Black / Master 4 / 69KG. He shared his joy: "Winning gold is a special moment for me. Last year, I competed in the championship and didn’t place as high, but this time I came back better prepared, fought three tough competitions, won them all, and earned my first gold at this prestigious event."

Yakubov appreciated his experiences in Abu Dhabi: "I’ve been to Abu Dhabi many times for these championships, and today the experience exceeded my expectations. The energy at the arena and the fans were incredible. I thank the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for putting on such high-level championships throughout the year."

The professional division competition will commence tomorrow and continue until Saturday. The Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards ceremony is scheduled for Sunday.

With inputs from WAM