Kazakhstan National Team dominate amateur division at Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship

ABU DHABI: The amateur division (white and blue belts) of the 14th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship concluded on Saturday with the Kazakhstan National Team securing the lead in the best academy ranking.

Sharjah Self-Defence Sports club and the UAEJJ Team occupied second and third places, respectively, at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena in Zayed Sports City.

Fahad Ali Al-Shamsi, secretary-general of the UAE and Asian Jiu-Jitsu federations said the launching of the championship with competitions for kids and amateurs was a correct decision by the federation.

“Given the high demand we have seen for participation, the UAEJJF made the right decision to launch the ADWPJJC with the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival. We are witnessing an unprecedented level of public engagement and a glitzy atmosphere of competition.

“The championship provides many players a starting point for their professional careers, as evidenced by today's matches.

“The players were shining in the amateurs’ class, and the results indicate that they are convinced that this competition is the first step on the road to success,” he added.

Al-Shamsi highlighted the role carried out by local clubs and academies in helping the federation realize its objective of creating the ideal environment for developing talent and promoting jiu-jitsu.

Melquisedeque Moura (blue belt) from Brazil, representing Clube Feijao in the men’s amateur (56 kilograms) division, said the ADWPJJC was among his favorite jiu-jitsu championships.

“What I like most about this championship is the magical atmosphere here which motivates the players to do their best.

“The skill level of the players here is very high and the tournament, as always, is the destination of the top