ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu World Tour (ADGS) is set to make its debut in Xi’an, China, from 18th to 20th October, 2024, marking a key milestone in the global expansion of the tour. This round will see 900 athletes from 30 countries, including 25 athletes from the UAE, competing across various divisions, showcasing their skills in a highly competitive environment. The tour is part of the 2024/2025 season and features competitions in various belt categories, including the Masters division, which attracts athletes from multiple age groups.
The Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) series has gained significant momentum in China, with previous events in the region attracting more than 50 million views and followers across various Chinese media platforms, helping to grow the popularity of jiu-jitsu in the country. These events have provided a platform for Chinese athletes to compete on an international level, helping to develop local talent and strengthen ties between China and the global jiu jitsu com
munity.
Tarek Al Bahri, General Manager of International Vision Sports Management (IVSM), the organiser of the ADGS, emphasised the significance of this event, saying, ‘Xi’an is a key stop in our tour to expand jiu-jitsu’s presence in China, where the sport has seen notable growth in recent years. The success of our previous events paved the way for this debut in Xi’an. It’s a reflection of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to spreading jiu-jitsu across Asia. We are confident this event will inspire future generations of athletes and enhance the global profile of the sport.’
The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu Jitsu World Tour has established itself as a premier global competition, attracting top athletes and emerging talents alike. The expansion into Xi’an comes in response to the growing demand for high-level jiu-jitsu competitions in the region, where martial arts have deep cultural and historical roots. This event is expected to encourage greater participation from Chinese athletes, many of whom have already gain
ed valuable experience through previous AJP events.
China has become a key market for jiu-jitsu growth, and the success of past AJP events in the country has helped elevate the sport’s popularity. The inclusion of Xi’an in the ADGS calendar is expected to boost the visibility of Chinese athletes on the global stage, providing them with the opportunity to compete alongside world-class competitors.
In addition, the ADGS in Xi’an will celebrate the rich cultural heritage of jiu-jitsu, blending the sport’s values of discipline, respect and perseverance with the cultural significance of Xi’an, an ancient city that was once the eastern terminus of the historic Silk Road. This event serves as a testament to the power of jiu-jitsu to bridge cultures and promote international cooperation.
Following the Xi’an edition, the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Jiu-Jitsu World Tour will continue its global journey, with upcoming stops in Sydney, Tokyo, Rome and London, before concluding with the grand finale in Abu Dhabi in May 2025.
Abu Dhabi remains committed to reinforcing its position as the global capital of jiu-jitsu, providing athletes worldwide with a platform to compete at the highest level.
Source: Emirates News Agency