Dubai: The Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship returns this weekend, with the sixth round taking place at Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex in Dubai on August 29-30. The No-Gi round will feature Under-12, Under-14, and Under-16 athletes on Saturday, followed by the Under-18, Adults, and Masters divisions on Sunday.

According to Emirates News Agency, the event marks the final No-Gi round of the championship, making it crucial for the title race. Clubs and academies have one last opportunity to earn more points and improve their positions before the final No-Gi standings are decided. The fast-paced No-Gi format places greater emphasis on speed, movement, and control, requiring athletes to react quickly to transitions, read their opponents, and capitalize on opportunities during each match.

Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club topped the standings in the previous No-Gi round, held in Fujairah in April, ahead of Palms Sports - Team 777 and M.O.D Academy. The leading clubs will renew their rivalry in Dubai as the race for the No-Gi title reaches its decisive stage.

Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, emphasized the importance of each match and point as the championship reaches its sixth round. He noted how the competition tests athletes' speed, control, and ability to adapt, ultimately improving their skills and preparing them for different types of competition. Al Batran highlighted the federation's efforts to make the championship beneficial for both athletes and clubs, with each round providing an opportunity to assess progress.

Majed Alnaqbi, an Under-16 athlete from Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club, shared his preparation strategy, focusing on control and quick transitions to perform at his best and earn important points for the club. The championship will continue with Round 7 at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi, featuring Gi competition from September 18-20, before concluding with the final round from October 16-18.