Zayed Al-Katheeri to represent UAE at inaugural Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship

ABU DHABI: The first Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship — ADXC 1 — a new event in the world of combat sports, will officially start in the UAE capital on Oct. 20.

The competition will see a range of elite jiu-jitsu, grappling and MMA stars from around the world competing at the Mubadala Arena, including the Emirati champion, Zayed Al-Katheeri.

Al-Katheeri has made a name for himself in jiu-jitsu with impressive accomplishments at local and international championships.

The crowning moment of his career was in November last year at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship when he scooped gold in the 56 kg black belt category by defeating Brazilian Nathaniel Fernandez.

With this victory, he became the first Emirati to attain this distinction since the event’s inception in 2009, putting an end to Brazilian dominance in the professional black belt category.

“Our jiu-jitsu achievements affirm the unwavering support of our wise leadership for athletes and the tireless efforts of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation to foster a culture of excellence, victory and determination among players,” Al-Katheeri said. “They’ve provided us with all the necessary resources to compete at the highest levels.”

With only a few days left until the event, Al-Katheeri is fully focused on his preparations.

“I am honored to represent the UAE in this tournament. I am well aware of the high expectations placed upon me as I am the sole Emirati competitor. I am committed to giving my best to secure a victory that Emiratis worldwide can take pride in. I invite all Emiratis to attend the matches and cheer me on, as their presence means the world to me and boosts my morale during the bouts.” 

Al-Katheeri’s experience and particular skills in