The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship returns this April 15-19 with a bigger programme and line-up, and at a brand new state-of-the-art home for Jiu- Jitsu in the UAE capital.

Held under the Patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, the free-to-attend championship, now in its sixth year, will open a proud new chapter for the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJ) as they host elite male and female fighters from 50 different countries at the First Gulf Bank Arena.

Under the theme ‘One World One Fight’, heroic local fighters – including UAE national team stars Faisal Fahad Al Ketbi (Brown belt) and Shamsa Hassan (Female Blue belt) – will share the mat with international challengers from 49 other countries, including Brazil’s own Marcus Almeida, the reigning Black Belt Open heavyweight world champion, who returns alongside female Open Weight Black Beltchampion, Gabrielle Garcia.

They. and an expected 700 plus field, will be looking to gain the title of ‘World Champion’ in their respective divisions and a slice of the increased cash prize of more than Dh1.56m.

The 2014 edition – sponsored by the International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) – also sees the introduction of an extra day to the programme for the World Jiu Jitsu Children’s Cup.

This year’s five-day showpiece also offers an enhanced spectator programme suited to the whole family that includes interactive stands, and a raffle for a chance to win one of two cars.

Abdulmunam Al Hashemi, UAEJJ chairman said: “Thanks to this championship, Abu Dhabi has emerged as a global capital for Jiu- Jitsu, respected, admired and loved by all who compete here.”