Abu Dhabi: Day seven of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship witnessed the conclusion of the masters’ competitions with the Commando Group securing victory, while fellow UAE-based club AFNT finished second, and the Kazakhstan National Team grabbed third.

The 15th edition of the championship, held under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi and chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, will continue at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City until Nov. 10.

Mohammed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and chairman of the championship’s organizing committee, said: “Seven days into the championship, the event has garnered praise from all international delegations, representatives of clubs and academies, as well as the athletes.

“They will carry unforgettable memories back to their countries, as they have witnessed a well-organized event in accordance with the highest international standards. These accolades will motivate us to continue our pursuit of excellence and innovation in future competitions.”

Al-Dhaheri noted that the professional competitions in the last three days of the tournament were expected to see an increase in attendees, especially with the participation of several world champions in various weight classes and belt ranks.

Rashed Abdul Karim Al-Balooshi, undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development, highlighted the atmosphere of the Abu Dhabi tournament and its ongoing year-on-year growth.

He said: “Hosting a tournament of this caliber and accommodating thousands of athletes while maintaining the highest organizational standards is incredible. I’m thrilled to be a part of this competitive environment.

“What impressed me the most in this tournament was seeing families coming out in big numbers and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere here. This championship provides an excellent opportunity for people to come together, connect, and exchange cultures,” he added.

Carlos Calderon, a coach with the CFC team from Spain, said: “I have lived in the UAE for some time, as I worked in Al-Ain for six years as a coach. I love this country.

“My brother, students, and friends always come here to participate in the championship in Abu Dhabi, the world jiu-jitsu capital, which we consider to be the best platform for the global jiu-jitsu community to gather.

“Our team includes 15 athletes, six of whom participate in the masters category competitions. The championship amazes us every time with its many surprises and remarkable developments at the organizational level,” he added.

Brazilian Hugo Shiomi, representing AFNT, took the gold medal in the men’s Gi/black/master 2/69 kg division, and said: “Every year, the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is a priority for me, and I started training for this event well in advance.

“I really like how seamlessly this event is organized, and I am sure other athletes would also have the same opinion. And the crowd here is so amazing and encouraging.”