WAM reported that Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club seized the lead in the team standings following the first day of competition in round six of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship. The No-Gi bouts took place at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex in Dubai across the under-12, under-14 and under-16 categories, where athletes displayed notable technical proficiency and tactical awareness. Points accumulated through a series of matches that tested speed and precision in the format, setting a competitive tone for the remainder of the event. This sixth round marks the final No-Gi segment of the series, adding weight to each result as clubs vie for overall honours.
The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation has emphasised the value of including the No-Gi category to broaden competitive exposure for participants. Yousef Abdullah Al-Batran, a board member of the federation, stated that as the championship reaches its sixth round every match and every point become more important. Earlier coverage by Arab News indicated that the federation organised the event to foster skill development across different jiu-jitsu approaches while maintaining high standards of sportsmanship.
Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club has established a pattern of strong showings in No-Gi events within this championship. The club secured the No-Gi title in the inaugural edition and topped the standings in the prior No-Gi round held in Fujairah in April, according to Arab News. Such results have kept the club at the forefront of the series as it progresses toward its conclusion.
Majed Al-Naqbi, an under-16 athlete from Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club, described the specific preparations for the No-Gi round. “We prepared differently for this round because no-gi matches require more speed, focus and quick reactions during transitions. In training, I focused on control and moving quickly between positions. My goal is to perform at my best and earn important points for the club.” These remarks highlight the strategic approach taken by competitors from the leading team.
Federation officials and dignitaries attended the opening day and took part in honouring the top performers with medals. Their involvement reflected the event’s standing as a key fixture in the national sports schedule. Family backing has proven essential in sustaining the participation and advancement of young athletes in jiu-jitsu programmes nationwide.
The championship continues on Sunday with under-18, adults and masters divisions on the schedule. This progression enables a full review of talent at every level before final tallies are compiled. Organisers have tracked rising participation and performance quality through the six rounds since the series began.
