Sharjah Self-Defense emerged as winners on the inaugural day of the AJP No-Gi Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023 at Al Nasr Club on Saturday. The first day of the two-day event featured competitions in junior, youth, and masters’ categories and was marked by exceptional performances and a roaring crowd.

Organised by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP), the tournament attracted participants from various local and international clubs and academies, who delivered exceptional performances. Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Jiu-Jitsu Club secured the runner-up position, with A.F.N.T taking third place.

His Excellency Abdul Monem Al Hashemi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation congratulated the winners and praised the wide participation of clubs and academies.

Al Hashemi said: “The inclusion of the junior category in the tournament’s competitions and their extensive participation is in line with the federation’s vision to invest in the new generation of talents and reflects the growing awareness among families about the significance of this sport. They encourage their sons and daughters to engage in it due to its profound impact on preparing future generations to become influential members of society, instilling noble values such as perseverance, determination, courage, and self-confidence.”

Pablo Deceiro, a member of the coaching staff at Shabab Al Ahli Jiu-Jitsu Club, added, “We aim to participate in all federation tournaments as part of a comprehensive plan to develop a qualified team in all categories capable of competing at all levels in the coming years. Our primary focus is on the junior and youth categories, as they form the cornerstone of the club’s vision.”

“This tournament contributes to honing local talents as they compete against a group of the world’s top athletes with exceptional technical skills which adds tremendous value to the players’ experiences and equips them for future competitions at the highest levels,” Deceiro added.

The championship holds significant importance as it awards 600 points in the AJP ranking to the first-place winners in each category and prepares them to compete in the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship in November, increasing their chances of qualifying for the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Awards at the end of the season.