Asma makes history, becomes 1st Emirati to reach Black Belt finals at World Pro

Emiratis Zayed Al Katheeri, Khaled Al Shehhi, Mohammed Al Suwaidi and Asma Al Hosani, on Friday, secured their spots in the finals of the professional black belt division at the 16th Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

The finals will take on Saturday, at Mubadala Arena starting at 6 PM, featuring four Emirati athletes, a first since the championship’s inception.

Representing Baniyas Club, Hosani has made history by becoming the first Emirati woman to qualify for the professional finals in the women’s brown-black belt category. She achieved the milestone defeating France's Lina Grosset from School of Champs in the 55kg division.

“I am very proud to be the first Emirati woman to reach the final in the women’s brown /black belt division at this world championship,” said Hosani.

“This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our wise leadership and the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. I eagerly look forward to the final, where I aim to win gold and stand on the podium.”

In the 62kg men’s division, Al Ain Club’s Shehhi secured his place in the finals after defeating Ecuadorian Enrique Guerrero. “Reaching the final for the second consecutive year is a significant step in my career,” Shehhi said. “I’m determined to give my best performance and win the gold medal and the championship belt. Last year’s silver medal motivated me to improve my skills, refine my strategy, and work harder throughout the year. My goal tomorrow is to take gold.”

Katheeri, representing Abu Dhabi Police Academy, also advanced to the finals. Katheeri, who made history in 2022 as the first Emirati to win gold in the black belt division, defeated Armenian Rafayel Kostanyan from Legacy Jiu-Jitsu Armenia.

“I’m thrilled with my performance today and excited about the opportunity to reclaim the title,” said Katheeri.

“I’m confident in my abilities and ready to compete against one of the best athletes in the world. Tomorrow is my chance to showcase my skills and prove my progress.”

Elsewhere, Suwaidi from Al Wahda Jiu-Jitsu Academy secured his place in the 69kg final after overcoming Brazilian Raimundo Sodre from Clube Feijao in semi-final. “I am so glad I made it to the finals in the black belt division. I’m really looking forward to the final tomorrow. I’ve done all the preparations right, so I am confident I will do my best to win the title,” Suwaidi said.

Brazilian mother of two returns to after five-Year Break: Brazilian jiu-jitsu athlete Enaile Dos Anjos made her long-awaited return to the mats on Thursday at the Abu Dhabi Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Mubadala Arena.

Competing in the Women’s GI / Black Belt / Professional / 70kg division as the Brazil qualifier, she represented M.O.D UAE.

After a five-year hiatus, during which she welcomed two children, the 29-year-old black belt rejoined the jiu-jitsu world with renewed purpose and passion.

Enaile’s story is one of balancing full-time motherhood with her drive to pursue her love for jiu-jitsu. “I was five years without participating in championships. But then, about a month ago, I went back and competed in Qatar, and two weeks ago, I competed in Italy. I wanted to feel the rhythm and flow of competition again,” she said.

For Enaile, the break wasn’t only about stepping away from competition, it was a time of transformation. “I had my first daughter five years ago, and my youngest is now one and a half. I was fully immersed in motherhood,” she added. Now, as a mother of two and a coach, she felt ready to return to the mats, bringing a renewed sense of purpose with her.

Enaile’s journey has also given her a platform to inspire others, especially her daughters. “I want to set an example for the next generation, for my daughters,” she said. “Even when you feel fear, you need to go after your dreams. It’s not about the results. It’s about being here, showing up for something as amazing as the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship.”

Grateful for the opportunity, Enaile knows the challenges athletes face worldwide to reach this level of competition. “I thank God for the chance to be here. I know many people around the world wish they could experience this, but not everyone has the opportunity. I push myself for them and for my family.”