The sport’s biggest tournament attracted more than 2,000 athletes to the UAE capital when it was held in April for the 12th time ABU DHABI: Following the success of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (ADWPJJC) in April, where more than 2,000 athletes from at least 80 countries competed across four days of action, the world’s largest jiu-jitsu event will return for a 13th time to the UAE capital’s Jiu-Jitsu Arena in November. Mohammed Salem Al-Dhaheri, the vice president of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF), said: “Following the success of the ADWPJJC in April, the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation assigned a committee to organize the 13th edition in the last quarter of this year, to provide the world’s best an opportunity to shine in the most prestigious event on the calendar, especially those who were not able to participate in the 12th edition due to travel restrictions.” “The level of participation in the 12th ADWPJJC underlines its importance to jiu-jitsu athletes around the world,” he added. “The appetite is as strong as ever and we owe it to the athletes to give them a safe and secure platform on which to compete in the sport they love. With the gradual easing of travel restrictions in the coming months, we are optimistic about returning to normal life and welcoming the maximum possible participation in the 13th edition of largest and most prestigious event on the global jiu-jitsu calendar.” The 12th ADWPJJC attracted thousands of spectators from across the globe, despite the event being held behind closed doors, with fans tuning in to the action via the championship’s digital channels. Data from the tournament recorded almost 400,000 views and 67,000 hours of watch time. The UAEJJF will be streaming the 13th championship on its YouTube channel. The six-day event will also be broadcast on Abu Dhabi Sports TV.