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Abu Dhabi, September 17: Round 7 of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship gets under way tomorrow, Friday, at Mubadala Arena, with athletes from top clubs and academies across the UAE set to compete over three days of Gi action. 

The championship is a major event on the UAE’s domestic jiu-jitsu calendar and continues to support the growth of the sport by providing athletes with regular competition, developing young talent and preparing promising competitors to represent the UAE at international events. 

The championship returns to Abu Dhabi after previous rounds were held across different emirates, with the battle for points becoming increasingly important at this stage of the season. Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club leads the Gi standings, followed by Palms Sports – Team 777 and Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club. With the standings taking shape, Round 7 gives athletes another chance to build on their performances from previous rounds and amass crucial points. 

Mohamed Hussain Al Marzooqi, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said: “Round 7 comes after several competitive rounds that have given coaches a clear picture of their athletes’ progress. Regular competition helps athletes improve their skills and gain experience against opponents with different styles. 

“At this stage of the season, small details can make a big difference during the matches. Athletes need to use the experience they have gained from previous rounds and apply what they have worked on in training. 

“The championship also gives clubs and academies a good way to measure the progress of their athletes. Competing regularly helps athletes improve and prepares those who perform well to move to the next level.” 

Majed Alshamsi, a Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club athlete competing in the Adults Blue Belt category, said: “As we reach Round 7, technical details become even more important, especially how we manage the match, read our opponents and stay focused under pressure. At Baniyas Club, we want to perform consistently and strengthen our position in the standings. Every athlete knows their result contributes to the club’s overall performance.” 

Khalfan Almarzooqi, a Palms Sports Academy athlete who leads the Under-16 White Belt rankings, added: “Every round gives me another chance to test myself and learn from my matches. Competing against athletes with different styles and experience helps me see where I have improved and what I still need to work on. In every match, I try to apply what I have learned in training and learn from the experience. My goal is to improve with every round and become a better athlete.” 

Round 7 continues until Sunday, with clubs and academies competing for points at an important stage of the season. Results across the different categories could have a significant impact on the standings ahead of the remaining rounds. 

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Abu Dhabi, 15 September: The race for the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship title enters a crucial stage this weekend, with Round 7 set to take place at Mubadala Arena from September 18–20. With the Gi standings closely contested, every result will be important as clubs look to strengthen their positions ahead of the final round. 

The championship continues to support the development of jiu-jitsu in the UAE by giving athletes regular opportunities to compete, increasing participation and helping clubs and academies identify and develop talent across different age groups. 

Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club leads the Gi standings ahead of Round 7, followed by Palms Sports - Team 777 and Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club. All three remain in contention for the title and will be looking to add more points before the final round, with performances across different categories and weight divisions contributing to the overall standings. 

Round 7 will feature the Kids categories, as well as Under-12, Under-14, Under-16 and Under-18 competitions, alongside the Adults and Masters divisions. With valuable points up for grabs across every category and weight division, each result could prove crucial in the title race ahead of the final round. 

Several athletes from the leading clubs are set to compete, including Al Ain’s Rashid Mohammed Al Shehhi and Baniyas’ Hazza Farhan will be among the athletes to watch in the Adults Black and Brown Belt category, with both looking to deliver best results for their clubs. 

The women’s competition will also be equally competitive with several leading names, including Baniyas’ Maryam Al Ali and Palms Sports’ Ghala Al Hammadi, set to take to mats.  Al Ali and Al Hammadi will contest in the Purple Belt category. 

With the standings tight and the final round approaching, results across every category and weight division could prove decisive. Strong performances throughout the squad will be key as the leading clubs compete for points and position in the title race. 

Abdullah Salem Al Zaabi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said: “As we get closer to the final round, every result becomes more important. Round 7 will be an important test for the clubs as they look to maintain their performance, make the most of their squads and stay in the title race. 

“The competition has been close throughout the championship, and every athlete can contribute to their club’s position. With fewer rounds remaining, there are fewer chances to make up points, so every match can make a difference to the standings.” 

Zayed Al Kaabi, Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club Coach, said: “The final rounds require good preparation, especially with athletes competing across different weight divisions and categories. We need to stay focused and consistent. We want every athlete to perform at their best and help the club remain competitive until the end of the season. 

“The final result depends on the whole team, so we focus on preparing every athlete while also looking at the overall result of the round. A strong performance in any category can make a difference to our position in the standings.” 

Rashid Mohammed Al Shehhi, Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club athlete, said: “We want to achieve the best possible result, and we know that every athlete’s performance contributes to the club’s overall result. That gives us extra motivation and responsibility when we compete.” 

Ghala Al Hammadi, Palms Sports athlete, said: “Our preparation is not only about competition day. It comes from the work we do at the academy throughout the season and the bond between athletes and coaches. I want to perform at my best and help my team in the overall standings.” 

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Dubai, August 29:

Sharjah self-defence sports club topped the standings on the opening day of Round 6 of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex in Dubai.

The No-Gi competition on Saturday featured athletes in the Under-12, Under-14 and Under-16 categories, representing clubs and academies from across the UAE. The young athletes produced a high technical standard, showing control, quick decision-making and the ability to adapt to the demands of No-Gi competition.

ADMA finished second, with Palms Sports in third. Round 6 is the final No-Gi event of the championship this season.

The championship gives athletes regular competition and helps clubs identify and develop young talent. It also prepares the next generation of athletes to represent the UAE at regional and international events.

The opening-day competitions were attended by H.E. Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, and H.E. Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, and Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri Board Members of the Federation, along with Federation officials and representatives of partners and sponsors.

H.E. Yousef Abdullah Al Batran said: “No-Gi competition is a different technical challenge for young athletes. It requires quick reactions, the ability to adapt and good decision-making under pressure. Competing in this format from an early age helps athletes develop their skills and improve step by step.

“The strong participation at Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship from clubs and academies shows the continued growth of jiu-jitsu in the UAE. It also increases the level of competition and gives coaches more opportunities to identify and develop promising athletes.”

Vitor Junior Teixeira, coach at ADMA Academy, said: “When training young athletes, we focus on control, discipline and staying calm because small technical details can change a match within seconds.

“I am pleased with our athletes’ performance and the focus and commitment they showed throughout the competition. Most importantly, their training is helping them become more confident and handle the pressure of competition.”

The stands were filled with families supporting the young athletes throughout the day, showing the important role parents play in encouraging children to progress further in their careers.

Khamis Mubarak Al Mazrouei, father of Matar and Sultan from Wolves Zone MMA Academy, said: “My sons’ first appearance in the championship was a special moment for our family. I was happy to see them compete with confidence and enthusiasm. The real benefit is what they learn from the experience, including commitment, respect for their opponents and the ability to handle pressure. These values encourage us to continue supporting them throughout their sporting journey.”

Sarah Al Haddad, mother of Sari and Abdulsalam Mohamed from Shabab Al Ahli Club, said: “Jiu-jitsu has made a clear difference in my children’s development. It has helped them become more disciplined and confident. It has also taught them to remain calm in victory and defeat and stay focused under pressure.”

Matar Al Shamsi of Al Hamriyah Cultural and Sports Club won gold in the Under-12 Grey Belt 50kg division. He said: “I am very happy with the result. I stayed focused in every match and tried to use what I learned in training. No-Gi competition requires quick decisions, and this win will motivate me to keep training, improve and achieve better results in future championships.”

Round 6 concludes on Sunday with the Under-18, Adults and Masters divisions, when the season’s final No-Gi standings will be decided.

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Almaty, July 14, 2026: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, continued its impressive performances at the third Jiu-Jitsu Asian Youth Championship, held at Almaty Arena, claiming 12 medals in the Under-18 division, including four gold, two silver and six bronze. 

The latest results reinforce the UAE's position among Asia's leading jiu-jitsu nations, reflecting the country's continued investment in athlete development and the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation's long-term vision to prepare generations of athletes to compete at the highest continental and international levels. 

The UAE athletes delivered stellar performances throughout the Under-18 competition, demonstrating their ability to assess contests, control the pace of matches and deal effectively with closely contested bouts, many of which were decided by fine margins. Their performances saw several athletes advance to the finals and secure podium places. 

Gold medals were won by Zainab Al-Mansoori (+70kg), Saif Al Baloushi (Under 48 kg), Hazza Al-Kaabi (Under 56kg) and Zayed Al-Hosani (Under 85kg). Silver medals went to Haneen Al-Khouri (Under 57kg) and Khalfan Al-Zaidi (Under 85kg). Bronze medals were claimed by Shamma Mohammed Al-Mansoori (Under 40kg), Ghala Al-Hammadi (Under 52kg), Ghanem Al-Ali (Under 52kg), Ali Al-Najjar (Under 56kg), Hamed Isa Al-Maskari and Saif Hamad Al-Ameri (both Under 62kg). 

The Under-18 results took the UAE's overall medal tally at the championship to 27 medals, comprising seven gold, seven silver and 13 bronze, following the team's 15-medal haul in the Under-16 competition. 

Fahad Ali Al-Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE and Asian Jiu-Jitsu Federations, said: "The continued success of our national teams is the result of the tremendous support the UAE's wise leadership provides to sport and its belief in the importance of investing in talent and empowering young athletes. This has helped build an advanced sporting system that continues to deliver achievements and raise the UAE flag at continental and international competitions. 

"The UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation follows a comprehensive strategy based on identifying talent at an early age, developing athletes through scientific training programmes, specialised training camps and regular international participation, supported by close technical monitoring. This approach has strengthened the UAE's leadership in Asia and reinforced its position as a global centre for the development of jiu-jitsu and the creation of champions. 

"The Under-18 category represents an important stage in preparing athletes to transition to elite competition. The maturity, technical ability and composure our athletes displayed against strong opponents reflect the quality of the Federation's technical programme and the success of its long-term strategy." 

Yasser Mohammed Al-Qubaisi, Head of National Teams at the Federation, said: "The Under-18 competition highlighted the remarkable development of our athletes and their ability to deal intelligently with the changing dynamics of each contest while maintaining concentration until the final moments. 

"Several contests were decided through precise execution and making the most of opportunities at the right time. This championship provides the technical staff with an important opportunity to assess performances comprehensively and build on the technical gains ahead of upcoming competitions." 

Zayed Al-Hosani, who won the gold medal in the Under 85kg division, said: "We entered the competition with great focus, knowing that reaching the top of the podium required discipline, commitment to the coaches' instructions and managing every moment of each contest. Representing the UAE is a great responsibility and motivates me to continue improving and achieving more success." 

Zainab Al-Mansoori, who claimed gold in the Over 70kg division, said: "The competition demanded complete focus, mental composure and the ability to adapt throughout each contest. Good preparation and the support of the coaching staff helped me overcome difficult challenges, and this medal motivates me to work even harder and prepare for the competitions ahead." 

The championship resumes on Thursday with the Under-21 competitions, where the UAE National Team will aim to maintain its momentum and add to its medal tally. 

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Almaty, July 13, 2026: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, made an impressive start to its campaign at the third Jiu-Jitsu Asian Youth Championship, amassing 15 medals, comprising three gold, five silver and seven bronze, in the Under-16 category on the opening day of competition at Almaty Arena. 

The UAE athletes produced strong technical performances that reflected their high level of preparation and readiness. They established themselves among Asia's leading young talents through tactical discipline, physical fitness and their ability to manage each contest, with several athletes progressing to the finals and stepping onto the podium. 

Gold medals were won by Abdulrahman Taher Al-Breiki (Under 40kg), Saeed Marwan Al-Qubaisi (Under 52kg), and Fahad Saud Al-Dhaheri (Under 62kg). The team's silver medallists were Saud Al-Baloushi (Under 44kg), Ahmed Al-Ketbi (Under 48kg), Ghayahib Al-Rashdi (Under 36kg), Mahra Badr Al-Azizi (Under 40kg) and Aya Mohammed Al-Baloushi (Under 57kg). 

Bronze medals went to Salem Saif Khaled (Under 52kg), Khalfan Al-Qubaisi and Khaled Hamdan (both Under 56kg), Mayed Ali Al-Shamsi (Under 69kg), Saud Juma Al-Karbi (Under 77kg), Meitha Al-Kaabi (Under 40kg) and Dana Asad Al-Naqbi (Under 63kg). 

Mubarak Saleh Al-Menhali, Technical Director of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: "The results reflect the continuous work carried out throughout the preparation period and the Federation's commitment to ensuring the national team is fully prepared to compete at the highest level. Our athletes demonstrated great confidence and the ability to execute tactical plans under pressure despite the strength of the competition and the narrow margins between competitors. Their focus and fighting spirit enabled them to secure victory in several important contests and earn places on the podium. 

"The championship represents an important milestone in the development of this age group, as it provides valuable experience against some of Asia's leading young talents. Participation forms part of an integrated plan aimed at refining athletes' skills, strengthening their competitive experience and preparing a generation capable of continuing the UAE's achievements in jiu-jitsu." 

Ibrahim Al-Hosani, coach of the UAE Under-16 National Team, said: "The athletes' performances improved noticeably as the competition progressed. They remained committed to the technical game plan and demonstrated their ability to read opponents and adapt their approach according to the demands of each contest. 

"The athletes entered the championship well prepared and successfully translated their training into effective performances on the mat, focusing on managing every detail of each contest while maintaining the right balance between attacking initiative and defensive discipline. The coaching staff will continue analysing performances to maximise the benefits of this participation, reinforce strengths and address areas requiring further development." 

Abdulrahman Taher Al-Breiki, who won the gold medal in the Under 40kg division, said: 'The high standard of competition from the opening contest motivated me to remain fully focused and follow the guidance of the coaching staff. Representing the UAE is a great responsibility, and winning this gold medal gives me added motivation to continue improving and achieve further success." 

Aya Mohammed Al-Baloushi, who won the silver medal in the Under 57kg division, said: 'I entered the championship aiming to compete for first place. Thorough preparation, self-confidence, and the support of the coaching staff helped me overcome difficult contests. I am proud to have contributed to the UAE team's medal tally and earned a place on the podium." 

The championship continues tomorrow, Tuesday, with the Under-18 competitions, where the UAE National Team will aim to maintain its momentum and add to its medal tally. 

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Abu Dhabi, July 7: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, has departed for Almaty, Kazakhstan, to compete in the third Jiu-Jitsu Asian Youth Championship, taking place from July 13 to 16, followed by the tenth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship from July 17 to 19 at Almaty Arena. The tournaments will bring together Asia's leading national teams in one of the continent's premier jiu-jitsu events. 

The National Team heads into the championships on the back of an impressive track record on the continental level, having topped the adults standings at the ninth edition in Amman and concluded its campaign with a total of 22 medals, underlining the UAE's position as one of Asia's leading jiu-jitsu nations. 

The Asian Championship is an important event on the National Team's calendar due to its high technical standards and the level of competition featuring the continent's top athletes. It also provides an opportunity to build on the UAE’s strong continental success while further preparing athletes for other upcoming international competitions. 

The Adults squad includes Omar Ali Alsuwaidi and Rashed Mohammed Alshehhi (56kg), Khaled Mohammed Alshehhi and Mohammed Al Ketbi (62kg), Sultan Hassan and Omar Al Fadhli (69kg), Mahdi Al Awlaqi and Fahad Alhammadi (77kg), Saeed Alkubaisi and Faraj Alawlaqi (85kg), Amaar Alhosani (94kg), and Rashid Alhimany and Hazza Farhan (+94kg). 

The Under-21 squad features Obaid Alketbi and Abdulrahman Sayedna (56kg), Abdulrahman Ahmed Saleh Abdulhaq (62kg), Faisal Alwahedi and Ahmed Andeez (69kg), Abdullah Andeez and Abdulaziz Alakidi (77kg), Saif Alameri and Majed Alshamsi (85kg), Theyab Aljneibi (94kg), and Abdulrahman Al Najar (+94kg). 

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Technical Director of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said the team's participation in the 10th Asian Championship forms part of the Federation’s vision to strengthen the National Team’s presence at continental and international competitions while building on the achievements of UAE jiu-jitsu in recent years. 

“Jiu-jitsu in the UAE enjoys tremendous support from the country’s wise leadership, which has helped establish an integrated sporting system that enables Emirati athletes to develop, compete and raise the UAE flag at the world's biggest championships,” said Al Menhali.  

“The team heads into this championship with high spirits, inspired by last year's success in Amman, where it claimed the adults title and finished with a total of 22 medals, including seven gold medals following the conclusion of the Under-21 competitions. 

“The Asian Championship is an important technical test because it brings together the continent's strongest national teams and gives our athletes in both the Adults and Under-21 categories a valuable opportunity to assess their readiness. Over recent months, the Federation has implemented a comprehensive preparation programme covering the technical, physical and mental aspects, while selecting the athletes best prepared for each weight division to maximize the team's ability to continue its continental success and deliver performances worthy of the UAE." 

National team coach Alan Nascimento said the technical staff had focused throughout the preparation period on improving team cohesion, increasing athletes' responsiveness on the mat and enhancing their ability to adapt to the changing demands of each contest. 

“The team enters the championship with a well-balanced mix of experienced athletes and promising young talent, giving us valuable tactical flexibility across all weight categories. Our preparations have focused on the fine details that make the difference in continental championships, including controlling the pace of matches, timing attacks effectively, defending under pressure and maintaining concentration until the final seconds.” 

The team's participation in the championship forms an important part of the Federation's long-term athlete development strategy, helping prepare athletes for future international competitions while providing the next generation with valuable competitive experience to ensure the UAE remains at the forefront of Asian and international jiu-jitsu. 

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