The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship returns for another edition next week and spectators can look forward to an even bigger and better competition in the capital.
The IPIC Arena will be at the centre of attention from April 10 to 23 as more than 7,000 athletes from over 100 countries will battle it out for the titles and a slice of the Dh3 million prize fund.
Some of the biggest names in the sport has already confirmed their participation including two-time-58kg black belt champion and MMA rising star Mackenzie Dern, Open champion Felipe Pena and the UAE’s top-ranked fighter Faisal Al Ketbi.
And besides watching the duels, there’s plenty of reasons to attend. Not only is entry free, but there is a Fan Zone with a variety of activities as well as the opportunity to win some exciting prizes including a Jaguar XE.
Previous years has seen huge numbers flock to the capital and over the next fortnight, it will be no different.
Scrapping it out: More than 7,000 athletes will battle it out in various ages and categories
“Since its inception, the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship has gone from strength to strength and is gaining prestige on the world stage,” said Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, CEO of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation.
“The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is one of the biggest events on the sporting calendar and we are proud to call Abu Dhabi the home of JiuJitsu,” said Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, CEO of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation.
“This year we will see even more participants than ever take to the mats of the IPIC Arena across the two weeks of competition which is a testament to the competition’s growth.”
He added: “The championship not only sees the professional athletes come together and compete but also allows local and national competitors to show off their skills throughout the Championship event – it is truly an event for all and I think that’s what makes it special.
“For the first time ever, we will also be hosting dedicated ParaJiu-Jitsu event and competition for players with disabilities and special needs. As part of the 2017 “Year of Giving” we will also be hosting workshops covering topics such as the environment, social responsibility, culture, and education, demonstrating that the event offers far more than a Jiu-Jitsu Championship.
“With this we hope to inspire the community and leave a lasting legacy in the UAE.”
WHAT: Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship
WHERE: IPIC Arena, Abu Dhabi
WHEN: April 10 to 23
CONTACT: For more information, visit www.uaejjf.com