DUBAI: The Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club dominated the opening day of the second round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Al-Nasr Club in Dubai. The event, featuring No-Gi competition, brought together young athletes from leading clubs and academies across the country.

Competitors in the U-12, U-14, and U-16 categories took to the mats on Day 1, with the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club securing the top spot. The Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club and Abu Dhabi Martial Arts Academy followed in second and third place, respectively. The action continues on Sunday with U-18, Adults, and Masters divisions set to compete.

Yousef Abdullah Al-Batran, board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said: “The second round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship dedicated (to) No-Gi competition offers a valuable experience for young talents, allowing them to think quickly and apply precise techniques that enhance their technical and physical abilities. This helps them improve their performance and sharpen their skills.

“This championship serves as an important platform for athletes across different age groups to test their abilities, build confidence, and develop a strong competitive mindset. It also reinforces core sporting values such as discipline, commitment, and respect, while preparing them for challenges in their athletic careers.

“The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship was the first event to introduce the Under-12 category to No-Gi competitions during its inaugural edition last year. This step was taken to help young athletes adapt to a professional competition environment early on, ensuring they develop both physically and mentally to become the future of jiu-jitsu in the country.”

Fareed Al-Qaiwani, executive director of Al-Nasr Sports Games Co., said: “We at Al-Nasr Club are honored to host this prestigious championship. We maintain close collaboration with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, and by hosting this event, we play a role in promoting jiu-jitsu. We look forward to welcoming more championships in the future.”