The UAE’s Jiu-Jitsu national team is gearing up for the 29th edition of the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship, aiming to secure a fifth consecutive title. Organized by the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation, the event will take place in Greece from October 24 to November 3. This year’s championship will feature a combined format for both adults and youth, with para and adult athletes competing from October 24 to 28, followed by the under-21, under-18, and under-16 categories from October 29 to November 3.
The UAE national team commenced an intensive training camp on September 5, involving 37 athletes from the UAE and 20 from Brazil. This camp offers athletes the chance to test their skills against competitors with different training methodologies. The camp consists of three daily sessions: two jiu-jitsu practice sessions focusing on technical and strategic skills, and a physical training session designed to boost the athletes’ fitness levels in preparation for the most demanding competitions.
Youssef Abdullah Al Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, emphasized the federation’s commitment to providing comprehensive support to the national team across all categories. He stated, “The Jiu-Jitsu World Championship is a true test for our athletes, who strive to make a strong impression, perform well against the world’s elite, and reinforce the UAE’s leadership on the international Jiu-Jitsu stage.”
Mubarak Saleh Al-Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, highlighted the importance of the training camp in preparing athletes at all levels. He noted, “The championship in Greece will bring together some of the strongest teams, all aiming to achieve top positions. The training camp offers a comprehensive training environment, ensuring that our athletes reach peak performance and the required levels of readiness.”
Last year, the UAE outperformed over 40 teams at the championship in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, securing the top position with 14 medals—eight gold, four silver, and two bronze. The youth team also retained the title for the fourth consecutive year in Kazakhstan, winning 46 medals—15 gold, 12 silver, and 19 bronze.
Shamma Al Kalbani, who won the gold medal in the 63 kg weight category last year, expressed confidence in winning again in Greece. She said, “I look forward to participating in the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship and winning another gold medal. Over the past few weeks, I have focused on mastering new skills to surprise my competitors. I have also reviewed videos of previous matches with my coaches to improve my techniques. I will aim to finish the fights quickly and secure submissions.”
