Latest news with #AJP
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Sport
- Gulf Today
UAE finish on top at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour concluded on Saturday at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, featuring hundreds of athletes from over 50 countries. The event was organized by the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) Federation. The tournament witnessed a fierce display of skill, strength, and strategy as elite competitors from around the world battled across grappling and ground fighting disciplines. Each bout showcased the highest levels of athleticism, with nations fielding their best talents in a bid for international supremacy. Amidst this intense competition, it was the UAE that emerged as the dominant force, topping the overall standings with a remarkable total of 31,000 points. Brazil, long regarded as a powerhouse in the world of grappling, followed closely with 30,600 points, while Russia secured third place with a solid 19,000 points. These results not only reflect the high caliber of the tournament but also shine a spotlight on the incredible rise of Emirati athletes on the global stage. The UAE's commanding performance is a testament to years of focused investment in sports development, world-class training infrastructure, and the strategic vision of the country's leadership, which continues to empower local athletes to reach new heights. The success of the Emirati contingent in such a high-profile event marks a significant milestone in the nation's sporting journey—one that signals its growing influence in the global martial arts community. Emirati champion Khaled Al Shehhi delivered a dominant performance to claim the gold medal in the highly competitive professional division, emerging victorious after a series of intense and decisive matches. His path to the top was paved by a combination of sheer physical power, exceptional technical mastery, and razor-sharp tactical intelligence. With every bout, Al Shehhi demonstrated why he is considered one of the UAE's premier athletes, executing his strategies with clinical precision and an unwavering fighting spirit. His victory not only highlights his individual excellence but also stands as a proud moment for the nation, reinforcing the UAE's growing prominence on the international martial arts stage. Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of AJP, attended the finals and presented the awards. Shehhi commented: 'This achievement is the culmination of years of relentless dedication, sacrifice, and the unwavering support I've received—especially from our wise leadership, who have always believed in the power of sport to inspire and unite. 'Standing on the top of the podium here in Abu Dhabi, my home, is a feeling that words can hardly capture. It's not just a personal victory—it's a moment that belongs to every coach, teammate, and supporter who has stood by me through the journey.' He continued:'The level of competition was incredibly high, with opponents representing a wide range of grappling schools and styles from around the world. Each match tested not just my physical condition, but my mental sharpness and adaptability. What made the difference today was my preparation, my belief, and my unwavering determination to make my country proud. This gold medal is more than just a symbol of success—it's a major milestone in my career and a source of motivation to keep pushing forward.' Pouya Rahmani, a standout in the heavyweight grappling division, also earned gold after a string of impressive performances through the elimination and final rounds. He said: 'Competing in AJP events always feels special. It's organized at a world-class level and attracts the strongest competitors. I sensed I was performing in front of an audience that truly values this sport, which gave me a crucial motivational boost. The organization was flawless, the referees top-tier, and the conditions perfect for delivering my best.'
Arabian Post
6 days ago
- Sport
- Arabian Post
Emirati Dominance Marks Abu Dhabi Grappling Grand Prix
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi hosted the culminating round of the Grand Prix Grappling World Tour at Mubadala Arena, Zayed Sports City, drawing hundreds of athletes from over 50 nations yesterday. The UAE secured top position in the overall standings, with 31,000 points, narrowly surpassing Brazil's 30,600 and Russia's 19,000, highlighting Emirati athletic rise in combat sports. Leading the charge was Khaled Al Shehhi, who seized gold in the professional division after a series of commanding performances. Demonstrating exceptional physical strength and technical finesse, Al Shehhi attributed his victory to years of rigorous training and unwavering institutional backing from national leadership. He praised the diversity of grappling styles present and affirmed that the title represents a 'significant milestone' in his career. ADVERTISEMENT In the heavyweight division, Pouya Rahmani also took home gold. He commended the tournament's professionalism, citing world‑class refereeing and flawless logistical arrangements, which, he added, elevated his performance amid a passionate crowd. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Jiu‑Jitsu Pro Federation, the event underlined Abu Dhabi's growing stature as a global combat‑sports hub. Its presence on the AJP calendar consistently attracts elite talent and contributes to the city's international sporting profile. Analysts note that this iteration—held on 14 June 2025—reflects a wider trend of rising investment and performance in grappling disciplines across the Gulf. With significant prize money and global ranking points at stake, UK‑based grappling commentator James Carter remarked: 'This tournament is fast evolving into a key international stage for pro grapplers—it draws tactical competitors from Europe, South America, and Asia alike.' Data from AJP shows this year's event awarded 2,000 global ranking points to each champion—an incentive that has increased both participation and competitive intensity. At the closing ceremony, Tareq Al Bahri, general manager of AJP, lauded the standard of competition and Emirati athletes' achievements. He emphasised that national development programmes have been instrumental in nurturing home‑grown talent, with jiu‑jitsu federations investing in grassroots camps and international coaching exchanges. Veteran coach Maria Fernandez, who oversees female grappling teams across the region, observed that the UAE's multi‑tiered strategy—combining youth training, scholarships, and elite events at Mubadala Arena—has yielded visible results. 'What we've seen here isn't just isolated wins; it's structural change. The UAE is visibly closing the gap with traditionally dominant nations like Brazil and Russia,' she said. Looking ahead, organisers confirm that the Abu Dhabi stop is set to remain a keystone of the 2025‑26 AJP Grappling World Tour. Future events, including youth and professional categories, will continue at Mubadala Arena and additional venues across the emirate, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's role in hosting elite martial‑arts competition. For Khaled Al Shehhi and Pouya Rahmani, the gold medals on home soil represent both personal triumph and national pride. Their performances, supported by a robust governance and funding framework, signal a shifting landscape in global grappling—a sport now gaining serious ground in the Middle East.
Sharjah 24
6 days ago
- Sport
- Sharjah 24
UAE tops Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour
UAE claims first place in overall rankings The UAE led the final standings with 31,000 points, followed closely by Brazil with 30,600 points, and Russia with 19,000 points. The strong performance highlights the growing international success and development of Emirati athletes in combat sports. Khaled Al Shehhi wins gold in professional division Emirati grappling star Khaled Al Shehhi secured a gold medal in the professional division, impressing with his strength, technique, and tactical mastery. He expressed pride in representing the UAE and credited his victory to years of preparation and support from the country's leadership. Pouya Rahmani dominates heavyweight division In the heavyweight division, Pouya Rahmani also clinched gold after a series of commanding performances. He praised the event's organization, the quality of competition, and the passionate crowd that motivated him to deliver his best. Abu Dhabi reinforces its status as a global combat sports hub The event further solidified Abu Dhabi's reputation as a premier destination for international combat sports. As a key fixture in the AJP calendar, the Grand Prix continues to attract top-tier athletes and raise the global profile of grappling sports.
Al Etihad
6 days ago
- Sport
- Al Etihad
UAE leads Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour as Khaled Al Shehhi clinches gold
14 June 2025 23:23 ABU DHABI (WAM)The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour concluded on Saturday at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, featuring hundreds of athletes from over 50 countries. The event was organized by the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) competitors in grappling and ground fighting competed fiercely, with the UAE topping the overall standings with 31,000 points, followed by Brazil with 30,600 points, and Russia in third with 19,000 points—highlighting the impressive progress of Emirati champion Khaled Al Shehhi claimed the gold medal in the professional division after a series of decisive matches, showcasing his physical prowess, technical skill, and tactical intelligence on the mat. Tareq Al Bahri, General Manager of AJP, attended the finals and presented the Al Shehhi commented: 'This achievement is the culmination of years of relentless effort and the immense support from our wise leadership. Winning such a prestigious title here in Abu Dhabi is beyond words. The competition was tough, with opponents from diverse grappling schools, but my determination and readiness were decisive. This gold is a significant milestone in my career, and I look forward to achieving more on the global stage.'Pouya Rahmani, a standout in the heavyweight grappling division, also earned gold after a string of impressive performances through the elimination and final rounds. He said: 'Competing in AJP events always feels special. It's organized at a world-class level and attracts the strongest competitors. I sensed I was performing in front of an audience that truly values this sport, which gave me a crucial motivational boost. "The organization was flawless, the referees top-tier, and the conditions perfect for delivering my best. I thank the organizers for this remarkable event and look forward to returning to Abu Dhabi for future championships.' The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour is a cornerstone of the annual AJP calendar and further cements Abu Dhabi's reputation as a global hub for combat sports and a premier destination for major international championships.
Scoop
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
ECan Backtracks On Te Waihora Leadership, Fish & Game Doubles Down On Harm
Press Release – Animal Justice Party At a public forum presentation to ECan on 26 March 2025, AJP raised urgent questions about both environmental and animal welfare impacts of duck shooting. The Animal Justice Party (AJP) is calling written responses from ECan and Fish & Game New Zealand on recreational duck shooting at Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere) a clear failure of leadership. 'Te Waihora (Lake Ellesmere), is recognised as one of Aotearoa's most ecologically significant wetlands,' says Danette Wereta, General Secretary of AJP, 'It is governed by a national Water Conservation Order, which overlays all other management.' The Order identifies Te Waihora's habitat for wildlife as an outstanding amenity or intrinsic value warranting protection. Regional Councils are responsible for implementation of National Orders. At a public forum presentation to ECan on 26 March 2025, AJP raised urgent questions about both environmental and animal welfare impacts of duck shooting. 'On the day, the majority of Councillors showed genuine engagement and concern for the contradiction between ECan's wildlife habitat responsibilities to Te Waihora and the ongoing disturbance and killing of wildlife for recreation,' says Wereta. However, a letter to AJP from ECan Chair Craig Pauling after the meeting deflects responsibility to other agencies, specifically Fish & Game and the Department of Conservation (DOC). ECan's written response claims ECan holds no jurisdiction over protecting biodiversity, passing the issue to Fish & Game and DOC. Fish & Game's Game Bird Specialist, Matthew Garrick, says, 'Game bird hunting is specifically listed as an integral part of the future and is listed as an important aspect to connect the community to Te Waihora.' But is shooting really the kind of connection Te Waihora needs? Just because it used to happen doesn't mean it still should. With such strong bird life at the lake, shouldn't protection and care come before outdated bloodsport? 'Fish and Game's response highlights their primary interest in promoting hunting and fishing. That organisation's interest in protecting habitat is focused through the lens of protecting habitat for game species alone, when the Lake is home to more than 150 bird species' says Wereta, 'alongside the National Order, the Lake is covered by international conservation agreements like the Convention on Migratory Species.' Fish and Game cite the Animal Welfare Act's hunting exemption to justify harm, and claim a contribution to biodiversity protection while simultaneously enabling activities that traumatise and kill wildlife. 'The idea that gunfire, wounded birds, and habitat disruption can coexist with meaningful conservation is absurd,' says Wereta. Wereta considers Fish & Game's response also reveals a dangerous contradiction at the heart of Te Waihora's governance. 'The site is identified as both a biodiversity hotspot and a recreational killing ground, yet the organisations responsible are refusing to reconcile this conflict, each pointing to the other, while the damage continues.' ECan is a member of the Te Waihora Co-Governance Group, 'it has the primary role to protect the lake as a habitat for all wildlife. We are calling for an immediate reassessment of the lake's use, and a clear prohibition on recreational duck shooting,' says Wereta, 'this is a moment to lead, not retreat.' About the Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ: AJP was registered in August 2023. AJP is a political party dedicated to advocating for the rights, welfare, and protection of animals. Their mission is to create a society where animals are treated with respect, compassion, and consideration. Through active participation in the political landscape, they aim to drive policy changes that reflect their commitment to a more ethical and sustainable future.
