Sharjah Self-Defense Wins Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, one of the most prestigious jiu-jitsu competitions in the UAE, concluded its No-Gi category on Sunday at the Zayed Sports Complex in Fujairah. Sharjah Self-Defense Club emerged as the overall champions after a strong performance over the two-day event. Al-Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club and Palms Sports Team 777 secured second and third places respectively, completing a competitive podium.

The championship saw athletes from across the UAE competing in Under-18, Adults, and Masters divisions. The No-Gi category, which focuses on grappling without the traditional gi uniform, tested the agility, strength, and technical skills of all participants. Sharjah Self-Defense Club showed remarkable consistency, with 15 athletes taking part and giving their best performances in every match.

Igor Lacerda, head coach of Sharjah Self-Defense Club, praised his athletes’ dedication and focus. “We began this round with 15 athletes, and our training was solely focused on winning the title. The players have competed consistently, and I’ve worked directly with them to improve their techniques and reduce mistakes. That effort led to today’s achievement,” he said. Lacerda highlighted that disciplined training and attention to detail were key factors in the club’s success.

Yousef Abdullah Al-Batran, a board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, emphasized the importance of the championship for the sport in the country. “This championship has once again demonstrated its status as a premier platform, highlighting the sport’s rapid growth throughout the UAE. We congratulate the winning clubs on their athletes’ great skill, determination, and sportsmanship,” he said. He also noted that the Gi final, which uses the traditional uniform, is scheduled for next month. This event will conclude the season and further strengthen the UAE’s position as a global jiu-jitsu hub.

The championship highlighted not only athletic excellence but also teamwork and sportsmanship. Clubs across the UAE showed strong preparation, strategy, and passion, making the competition exciting for athletes and spectators alike. The No-Gi matches allowed athletes to demonstrate advanced grappling techniques, quick thinking, and physical endurance, showing how jiu-jitsu has evolved into a highly competitive sport in the UAE.

Sharjah Self-Defense’s victory is a result of years of disciplined training and consistent participation in national and international competitions. The club’s coaches and athletes worked tirelessly to refine their skills, focus on strengths, and minimize errors during matches. This dedication reflects the growing professionalism in the UAE’s jiu-jitsu community.

The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship continues to be an essential platform for young and experienced athletes to gain recognition. It promotes healthy competition and encourages clubs to invest in coaching, training, and talent development. As the sport grows in popularity, events like this not only highlight individual and team achievements but also help raise the UAE’s profile in the global jiu-jitsu arena.

With the Gi final coming next month, athletes and fans are eagerly anticipating another round of high-level competition. The championship season is a testament to the UAE’s dedication to jiu-jitsu and its commitment to nurturing world-class talent. Sharjah Self-Defense Club’s victory in the No-Gi category sets a high benchmark for other clubs and inspires young athletes to pursue excellence in the sport.

Sharjah Self-Defense’s performance, combined with the support from the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, shows how structured training, strategy, and passion can produce champions. The event also reinforces the UAE’s role as a leading nation in promoting martial arts and providing opportunities for athletes to compete at the highest level.