Two Emirati Jiu-Jitsu fighters proudly represented the UAE by securing victories at the fourth edition of Abu Dhabi Extreme Championship (ADXC 4) in France. National champions Shammah AlKalbani and Khaled AlShehhi showcased their skills at the prestigious event, which attracted top-tier athletes from around the world to the vibrant city of Paris, currently gearing up to host the upcoming Summer Olympic Games.
Past iterations of ADXC were hosted in Abu Dhabi and Balneário Camboriú, Brazil. AlKalbani made history as the first Emirati woman to compete and triumph at ADXC. Additionally, the 21-year-old secured a landmark achievement by becoming the first female Jiu-Jitsu player to claim a medal at the World Games in Alabama in July 2022, solidifying her status as the Asian Champion in Jiu-Jitsu.
AlKalbani faced off against France's Lina Grosset in the preliminary card, engaging in a competitive exchange of foot attacks and dynamic movement. While Grosset intensified her efforts in the third round, AlKalbani's remarkable display of skill convinced the majority of the referees to grant her a split decision victory.
In the co-main event, AlShehhi also emerged victorious via a split decision against his Brazilian opponent, Leonardo Mario. A black belt athlete and gold medalist at the World Games, AlShehhi has established himself as a grand slam tour winner and an Asian Champion since commencing his Jiu-Jitsu journey at the age of eight in 2012.
