The Jiu-Jitsu International Federation (JJIF) will hold its annual Congress in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday in the presence of Panagiotis Theodoropoulos, President of the JJIF and other key officials from the various jiu-jitsu federations. During the meeting, the members will review a report on all regional, continental and international competitions that have been organised since the last meeting.
The annual meeting is being held on the sidelines of the 27th Jiu-Jitsu World Championship that runs at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena at the Zayed Sports City from October 29 – November 8. The event, scheduled to take place at 8 pm at Rixos Marina Hotel, will see representatives from more than 70 countries around the world, discuss a range of issues including the schedule for upcoming events, and ways to support jiu-jitsu athletes around the world.
Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE and Asian Federations said: “As the Asian and International Jiu-Jitsu Federations have its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, it serves as the centre of decision-making for global jiu-jitsu community.
“The JJIF Congress will review the most prominent events and activities that will be organised in 2023 as well as the hosts for the next Jiu-Jitsu World Championship which will be hosted separately for junior, youth and adult divisions.”
Meanwhile, the UAE national team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, has completed the official weigh-in procedures as they take to mats on in the Adults division on Wednesday.
Ramon Lemos, coach of the national team, said the team is all set for the challenge. “I have no need to worry anymore because I can tell from their words and eyes that the boys are up to the task. They’ve been working extremely hard for the past few months, and they’re in their final training session right now,” he said.
Lemos said the training camps have gone off without a hitch and the team is in good shape. “This year will require more effort because more nations will be competing in the championship, but the team is also better prepared, more self-assured, and more focused on winning,” he said.
“We have high expectations for the team, and they will give it their all. They have just had an outstanding season, have won multiple medals at multiple international competitions, and will continue to do so at the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship as well. They will help the UAE in defending its title from the previous year,” he added.
One of the top athletes, Omar Alfadhli, who is fighting in the 62 kg weight class, is expected to take advantage of his excellent form and win a medal.
“The national jiu-jitsu team is on fire, and they are well prepared for the challenge. As there are two athletes who are highly skilled and experienced in each weight division, we have a good chance of winning the championship this year,” he said adding: “The guys will capture gold and silver in every weight category. It’s a terrific opportunity and we will perform up to the expectations. We have put a lot of effort into training during the camps, guided by Coach Ramon and all the officials, and we will absolutely reach the top.”
Omar Alsuwaidi, 56kg, too appeared high on confidence ahead of the encounter. “I’m ready for the competitions and, Insha Allah, I’ll bring the gold home,” he said.
“I was aware of how significant this opportunity was and that it offers me an excellent platform to compete against international champions while showcasing my skills. Of all the contests and tournaments in which I have taken part this year, I have concentrated especially on the World Championship and World Pro, and I am confident that my preparations will be worth it. My only goal is gold,” he added.
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