Jiu Jitsu in the UAE is witnessing it’s biggest growth spurt yet, shaping the future of sport in the Arab World and positioning the country as the world’s capital of Jiu-Jitsu. It all started with Sheikh Tahnoon [Bin Zayed Al Nahayan]’s vision, the black belt creator of ADCC and share holder of the UFC, who was the heart and bind behind this entire revolution along with help from his brothers Sheikh Mohammed [bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces] and Sheikh Hazza [bin Zayed].
And here we go again, Tariq Bin Faisal, Sheikh of Sharjah has gone beyond the brown belt into the realm of Jiu-Jitsu black belt holders after gaining the silver medal at the International Masters IBJJF Rio Open event. Sheikh Tariq was on the brink of earning the gold medal before losing on advantage points in the last fight.
Bin Faisal, in an interview with GRACIEMAG.com commented on his participation in Brasil:
“I’ve come to Brazil a few times, but this was the first time I competed at the Tijuca Tennis Club; it was very special to me,”
Head BJJ instructor At Team Noguera Dubai, Rafael Haubert Sheikh Tariq’s teacher presented him the black belt in the presence of Legendary Ze Mario Sperry and David Ramos upon the Sheikh’s receiving of his well-earned silver medal. Tariq had the following to say:
“I did not expect it. I saw them coming up with the belt, and my teacher tied it around my waist. They said it is a tradition here in Brazil. I was very happy. Now, I start another phase as a competitor: new challenges, new opponents. My reactions on the mat will have to be faster. I look forward to it.”
