UAE's Commando Group crowned champions as Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship wraps up in Al Ain
AL AIN (WAM) The curtain came down Sunday on the inaugural edition of the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025, held over three days at ADNEC Centre Al Ain.Emirati clubs delivered a powerful statement, sweeping the top three positions in the championship.Organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), the championship featured thrilling matches and high-level competition, drawing a large crowd and more than 1,000 athletes from over 60 countries to the Al Ain Region.The final day saw the culmination of professional category matches, with standout performances energising the crowd. The UAE's Commando Group topped the overall standings across divisions, followed by ADMA International in second place and M.O.D UAE in third.Winners were awarded medals and cash prizes at the end of the event.This initiative was held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and under the umbrella of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP).In attendance on the final day and participating in the awards ceremony were Sheikh Tarik bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Saeed Al Dhaheri, Destination Management Department Director at the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, and Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of International Vision Sports Management.Al Bahri said, 'This year, we succeeded in delivering an exceptional edition of the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship by attracting top-tier international athletes to the Al Ain Region and organising professional-level matches that reflect Abu Dhabi's status as the world capital of jiu-jitsu. We thank all our supporting partners and the fans whose presence played a vital role in making this event a success.''We promise to continue delivering high-calibre grappling championships that elevate the sport and help uncover new talent at both the local and global levels.''Through this championship, we aim to cement Abu Dhabi and the Al Ain Region as global destinations for world-class sporting events, while expanding interest in grappling across all age groups. In future editions, we look forward to growing the event further, both in terms of participation and organisational excellence, so it continues to meet the expectations of athletes and spectators alike.'Pouya Rahmani of Team Nogueira Dubai, who won gold in the Men's Grappling / 18+ / Professionals / 125kg division, said, 'I feel amazing. This is my first world title in grappling as a black belt, and it means a lot to me. It's been a long journey, and finally winning this medal is incredibly satisfying. My final match was against Haitham Redha. I lost to him the last time, and he's a strong fighter, but I managed to take the victory this time. Thank you, Abu Dhabi. Thank you, Al Ain.'Caroline Vinhaes of Piramide Grappling Association, who claimed gold in the Women's 18+ / Professionals / 55kg division, said, 'I really enjoyed the championship. It is amazing to have a tournament dedicated specifically to grappling. Everything about the experience has been outstanding, from the organisation to the number of participants and the way we were treated throughout. I'm definitely looking forward to coming back and competing again.'Over the course of three days, the championship featured competitions across the professional, masters, amateur, and youth categories.
The impressive attendance and international participation reaffirm the event's growing status as a premier grappling competition in the region and on the global sports calendar.
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Commando Group claim AD grappling event
The curtain came down on the inaugural edition of the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025, held over three days at ADNEC Centre Al Ain on Sunday. Emirati clubs delivered a powerful statement, sweeping the top three positions in the championship. Organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), the championship featured thrilling matches and high-level competition, drawing a large crowd and more than 1,000 athletes from over 60 countries to the Al Ain Region. The final day saw the culmination of professional category matches, with standout performances energising the crowd. The UAE's Commando Group topped the overall standings across divisions, followed by ADMA International in second place and M.O.D UAE in third. Winners were awarded medals and cash prizes at the conclusion of the event. This initiative was held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and under the umbrella of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP). In attendance on the final day and participating in the awards ceremony were Sheikh Tarik bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Saeed Al Dhaheri, Destination Management Department Director at the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, and Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of International Vision Sports Management. Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of IVSM, said: 'This year, we succeeded in delivering an exceptional edition of the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship by attracting top-tier international athletes to the Al Ain Region and organising professional-level matches that reflect Abu Dhabi's status as the world capital of jiu-jitsu. 'We thank all our supporting partners and the fans whose presence played a vital role in making this event a success. 'We promise to continue delivering high-calibre grappling championships that elevate the sport and help uncover new talent at both the local and global levels. 'Through this championship, we aim to cement Abu Dhabi and the Al Ain Region as global destinations for world-class sporting events, while expanding interest in grappling across all age groups. In future editions, we look forward to growing the event further, both in terms of participation and organisational excellence, so it continues to meet the expectations of athletes and spectators alike.' Pouya Rahmani of Team Nogueira Dubai, who won gold in the Men's Grappling / 18+ / Professionals / 125kg division, said: 'I feel amazing. This is my first world title in grappling as a black belt, and it means a lot to me. 'It's been a long journey, and finally winning this medal is incredibly satisfying. My final match was against Haitham Redha. I lost to him the last time, and he's a strong fighter, but I managed to take the victory this time. Thank you, Abu Dhabi. Thank you, Al Ain.' Caroline Vinhaes of Piramide Grappling Association, who claimed gold in the Women's 18+ / Professionals / 55kg division, added: 'I really enjoyed the championship. It is amazing to have a tournament dedicated specifically to grappling.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Al Etihad
UAE's Commando Group crowned champions as Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship wraps up in Al Ain
3 Aug 2025 22:24 AL AIN (WAM) The curtain came down Sunday on the inaugural edition of the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025, held over three days at ADNEC Centre Al clubs delivered a powerful statement, sweeping the top three positions in the by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), the championship featured thrilling matches and high-level competition, drawing a large crowd and more than 1,000 athletes from over 60 countries to the Al Ain final day saw the culmination of professional category matches, with standout performances energising the crowd. The UAE's Commando Group topped the overall standings across divisions, followed by ADMA International in second place and M.O.D UAE in were awarded medals and cash prizes at the end of the initiative was held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and under the umbrella of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP).In attendance on the final day and participating in the awards ceremony were Sheikh Tarik bin Faisal Al Qassimi, Saeed Al Dhaheri, Destination Management Department Director at the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, and Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of International Vision Sports Bahri said, 'This year, we succeeded in delivering an exceptional edition of the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship by attracting top-tier international athletes to the Al Ain Region and organising professional-level matches that reflect Abu Dhabi's status as the world capital of jiu-jitsu. We thank all our supporting partners and the fans whose presence played a vital role in making this event a success.''We promise to continue delivering high-calibre grappling championships that elevate the sport and help uncover new talent at both the local and global levels.''Through this championship, we aim to cement Abu Dhabi and the Al Ain Region as global destinations for world-class sporting events, while expanding interest in grappling across all age groups. In future editions, we look forward to growing the event further, both in terms of participation and organisational excellence, so it continues to meet the expectations of athletes and spectators alike.'Pouya Rahmani of Team Nogueira Dubai, who won gold in the Men's Grappling / 18+ / Professionals / 125kg division, said, 'I feel amazing. This is my first world title in grappling as a black belt, and it means a lot to me. It's been a long journey, and finally winning this medal is incredibly satisfying. My final match was against Haitham Redha. I lost to him the last time, and he's a strong fighter, but I managed to take the victory this time. Thank you, Abu Dhabi. Thank you, Al Ain.'Caroline Vinhaes of Piramide Grappling Association, who claimed gold in the Women's 18+ / Professionals / 55kg division, said, 'I really enjoyed the championship. It is amazing to have a tournament dedicated specifically to grappling. Everything about the experience has been outstanding, from the organisation to the number of participants and the way we were treated throughout. I'm definitely looking forward to coming back and competing again.'Over the course of three days, the championship featured competitions across the professional, masters, amateur, and youth categories. The impressive attendance and international participation reaffirm the event's growing status as a premier grappling competition in the region and on the global sports calendar.
Web Release
2 days ago
- Web Release
ABU DHABI WORLD GRAPPLING CHAMPIONSHIP IS A BOOST FOR AL AIN REGION'S LONG-TERM GROWTH VISION
The inaugural Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025, currently underway at ADNEC Centre Al Ain, marks a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi's mission to establish itself as a global hub for combat sports. The three-day event, organised by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), runs until August 3 and brings together more than 1,000 athletes from over 60 countries to Al Ain Region. Held in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and under the banner of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP), the championship reflects a long-term strategy to position Al Ain Region as a destination where sport, culture, and community converge. Saeed AL Dhaheri, Destination Management Department Director at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said, spoke at the event, highlighting the broader vision behind hosting such championships in the Al Ain Region. 'This type of championship has quickly evolved into one of the fastest-growing global events. With renowned champions participating, Abu Dhabi is now firmly on the international map for combat sports. 'Hosting these tournaments in Al Ain Region supports a clear strategy by DCT Abu Dhabi to develop, promote, and market sporting events that contribute to the region's identity,' he added. As Abu Dhabi continues to enhance its reputation in martial arts, highlighting the Al Ain Region represents a deliberate step toward inclusive regional development. The championship is not only a showcase of world-class athleticism but also a platform that supports broader tourism, community engagement, and economic objectives. This year's event marks the second successful collaboration between DCT Abu Dhabi and IVSM in Al Ain Region. Al Dhaheri expressed pride in the partnership and its growing contribution to the emirate's sports tourism landscape. 'This is a partnership we are proud of. By bringing global champions to Abu Dhabi and Al Ain Region, we are enhancing the international profile of both destinations and reinforcing their appeal to sports fans and tourists alike,' Al Dhaheri continued. The championship also brings renewed attention to the unique character of Al Ain Region. Often referred to as the 'Garden City' of the UAE, it is home to Jebel Hafeet, one of the country's highest peaks, six desert palm oases, and a rich history dating back nearly 5,000 years. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it an ideal host for events that celebrate discipline, tradition, and excellence. With its blend of world-class competition, cultural resonance, and strategic vision, the Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship 2025 sets the stage for a powerful new chapter in the emirate's sporting journey.
