M.O.D UAE emerged as the frontrunner on the opening day of the Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, Round 3 No-Gi, being held from Sept.27 to 29 at Al Bait Metwahid, Sharjah.

Friday’s action saw elite athletes from the Adults and Masters divisions take to the mat, with M.O.D UAE competitors delivering commanding performances, firmly establishing their lead. Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club followed closely second place, while Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club secured third spot.

The championship continues over the weekend, with U12 and U14 athletes competing on Day 2, followed by the U16 and Youth categories on Day 3. This round is part of a five-round series held across the Emirates throughout the season, attracting top-tier talent from across the region.

The first day of the tournament was attended by Sheikh Khalifa Bin Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court; Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qasimi; Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council; Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Ahmed Abdul Rahman Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club and Mohamed Hussain Al Marzooqi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the UAEJJF.

Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council, said: “We extend our sincere gratitude to the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation for organising the Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, which is important to everyone who supports sports, especially jiu-jitsu. Since the founding of the UAE, our leaders have focused on investing in our youth, who play a crucial role in securing our present and building a bright future. What we invest in today will benefit us tomorrow, and what we invested in the past is what we enjoy now. This is reflected in the achievements of the UAE, thanks to our support for youth, sports, and education.”

Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, said: “Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship is a great platform to promote jiu-jitsu and support its growth among different categories of athletes. It shows our ongoing efforts to achieve excellence and reflects the strong support from our leadership to advance various sports, especially jiu-jitsu, as it plays a key role in promoting values like determination, persistence, and patience.”

He added: “We’re pleased to see the large turnout and strong support from the audience, which has added excitement to the championship and motivated the athletes to give their all to win. It also highlights the special place Jiu-Jitsu holds in everyone’s hearts.”

Haitham Hanawi of M.O.D UAE, who won gold in the Men’s Adults/Masters Brown/Black -56kg category, said: “Competing in this championship was tough, especially with the different strategies needed for No-Gi competitions. I won gold thanks to the hard training and support from my teammates and coaches. The matches were difficult, but it was a great way to test my skills. I believe this tournament will keep helping jiu-jitsu grow in the UAE.”

Rasul Isaev of Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Jiu-Jitsu Club, who won gold in the Men’s Adults Blue/Purple -77kg category, added: “The competition was challenging, as I faced very skilled opponents. Being physically and mentally ready was key to winning, especially with the unique rules of the No-Gi format. I’m proud to have won this medal in such an important tournament, which helps athletes try new strategies and improve their skills.”

Meanwhile, the opening round of the Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship unfolded with great splendor at the magnificent Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi this past June, drawing together a vibrant tapestry of athletes, fans, and martial arts enthusiasts. In a breathtaking display of skill and tenacity, Al Ain Club rose to prominence, claiming the coveted top position on the medal table. Their athletes dazzled the audience with flawless technique and unwavering spirit, embodying the very essence of competitive jiu-jitsu.

The Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club claimed the top spot in the second round of the championship, held at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai in July. Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club emerged victorious following a impressive performance, while M.O.D UAE took second place, and Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club secured third.