Fujairah to host Round 3 of Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship No-Gi this weekend
Strong family support and rising competition levels define growing championship series
DUBAI – Fujairah is set to host Round 3 of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship (No-Gi) this weekend at Zayed Sports Complex, as leading clubs and academies from across the UAE prepare to compete for vital points in the overall standings.
The two-day event brings together athletes from multiple age groups, reflecting the championship’s expanding scale and growing competitive intensity.
With previous rounds already setting a high benchmark, anticipation is building for another tightly contested series of matches.
Age categories
Competition will begin on Saturday with the Under-12, Under-14 and Under-16 divisions taking centre stage, showcasing emerging talent and the next generation of jiu-jitsu athletes.
On Sunday, attention shifts to the Under-18, Adults and Masters categories, where more experienced competitors will battle for podium finishes. The structured format ensures that athletes across all levels have the opportunity to compete, contributing to the championship’s inclusive and progressive framework.
No-Gi challenge
The No-Gi format adds a distinctive edge to the competition, with matches known for their faster pace and increased reliance on grip control, agility and rapid decision-making.
Unlike traditional Gi bouts, athletes must depend more heavily on physical conditioning and reflexes, making each encounter more unpredictable. As the championship advances through its rounds, the level of competition continues to tighten, placing greater emphasis on adaptability and split-second execution.
Rising standards
Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, highlighted the championship’s growing momentum, noting strong participation and closely contested matches in earlier rounds. He emphasised that Round 3 will further test athletes’ consistency and adaptability, particularly under the demanding conditions of No-Gi competition. He also pointed to the increasing presence of families at the event, describing it as a positive indicator of the supportive environment surrounding the sport.
Athletes themselves acknowledge the heightened challenge. Ibrahim Al Yassi of Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club, competing in the purple belt 69kg division, noted that the speed of No-Gi matches leaves little room for hesitation. He stressed that success depends on quick reactions, precise timing and the ability to read opponents effectively, with even minor details potentially determining outcomes.
Following Round 1, Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club led the standings, followed by Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club in second place and Palms Sports Academy in third, setting the stage for an evolving leaderboard as the championship progresses.