Abu Dhabi To Host Prestigious Jiu-Jitsu President’s Cup This March

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation has officially announced the dates for the eagerly awaited Jiu-Jitsu President’s Cup, setting the stage for an intense competition among the nation's top jiu-jitsu clubs and academies. Scheduled to take place from March 15 to 16 at the prestigious Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, this annual event aligns with the holy month of Ramadan, showcasing the skills and determination of athletes across various weight categories.

Last year's tournament saw Baniyas Club clinching the first place in both men’s and women’s divisions, demonstrating their dominance in the sport. They were closely followed by Al Ain and Al Jazira in the men’s division, and Al Wahda and Al Ain in the women’s division, highlighting the competitive spirit and high level of talent within UAE's jiu-jitsu community.

Fahad Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, shared insights into the preparations for this year's championship, emphasizing its significance as a platform for athletes to showcase their skills against formidable opponents. The focus on the adult category aims to elevate participants' technical abilities and performance through rigorous competition.

Al Shamsi also praised the local clubs for their unwavering commitment to preparing athletes for the tournament. He mentioned that early preparations included comprehensive training programmes and camps to ensure athletes are in peak condition. Moreover, he highlighted that attractive prizes worth over AED 1 million await the top performers, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

Mahmoud Al-Sayed, Director of the Jiu-Jitsu Academy at Al Wahda Club, expressed confidence in his team's preparation and determination to secure victory. Similarly, Iuri Alves, coach of Baniyas, underscored his team's ambition to defend their title with an outstanding performance. Asma Alhosani from Baniyas echoed this sentiment, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the club's successful legacy.

Abdullah Alkubaisi of Al Wahda Club conveyed his anticipation for competing in one of the country's most challenging championships, reflecting on the significance of this event in showcasing UAE's advancements in jiu-jitsu.

The Jiu-Jitsu President’s Cup is structured as a team-based competition where teams from various clubs face off in a series of individual matches across different weight categories. This format not only tests individual prowess but also fosters a strong sense of teamwork and strategy among participants.

This championship not only serves as a testament to the growing popularity and level of competition in jiu-jitsu within the UAE but also highlights the federation's commitment to promoting martial arts as a vital component of sports culture in the region. As clubs gear up for this prestigious event, athletes and fans alike are brimming with anticipation for what promises to be a showcase of skill, determination, and sportsmanship.

With inputs from WAM