The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF) yesterday announced the launch of the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, with tournaments to be staged in four major cities – Tokyo, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro and London.

The opening leg will take place at the Sumida City Gymnasium in Tokyo on August 29, followed by the legs at Los Angeles on October 18, Rio de Janeiro on December 5 and 6, and London on March 18 and 19.

"The Grand Slam is another milestone reached as we continue to reach excellence in the sport,” said Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, chief executive of the UAEJJF and general secretary of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union.

"Through this event, we hope to attract the world's best to compete,”

The opening event in Tokyo has a US$70,000 (Dh257,000) prize pool.

The UAE have picked a 14-member contingent, led by Faisal Al Ketbi.

They leave for the Tokyo tournament on Wednesday.

"The Grand Slam is an exciting new concept and a whole new experience for us,” Al Ketbi said. "My wish is to win both my weight and the absolute class in Tokyo.

"We have prepared well and so are my teammates, and we are looking forward to make a good impression in this inaugural event.

"We have several youngsters included in the 14-member squad and it will be a good experience for them.”

Al Ketbi's teammate Ali Salem Al Derei compared the Grand Slam to the IJF Judo Grand Prix and the IAAF Diamond League, in which the athletes who compile the highest points at the end of the competition receive cash bonuses.

"It is unique and another massive step forward to promote jiu-jitsu worldwide,” he said.
Source: The National