ABU DHABI — Excitement at getting back on the mat and competing at the largest and most prestigious event on the global jiu-jitsu calendar is running high amongst international stars as they get ready to put the final touches on their preparation for the 12th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (ADWPJJC) 2020 to be held at Abu Dhabi’s Jiu-Jitsu Arena from Nov. 17-21. Joao Sousa, winner of the gold medal in the 62 kg category in the 2019 edition, said that he was glad that this year’s edition of the ADWPJJC would be going ahead and he was looking forward to competing in Abu Dhabi. “The ADWPJJC is the biggest show in the season and one tournament that I simply do not miss. The quality of the athletes is excellent, the event is very well organized, and it is a tournament where you can really test yourself against the best in the world,” he said. The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF) had pioneered a return to live competitive sport in the Middle East in May with a closed training camp and two competitions for the country’s elite athletes, and since then has held several competitions that are an integral part of the domestic jiu-jitsu season. The ADWPJJC 2020 will take place in strict adherence to stringent local and federal health and safety guidelines with the wellbeing of athletes, officials, and support staff being the top priority. The 23-year-old black belt from Brazil said that he was very pleased with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s (UAEJJF) commitment to organize the 2020 edition of the prestigious Championship, even as live sport continues to reel under the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The UAEJJF are very serious about the sport and this is a big sign of hope for all international athletes. They (UAEJJF) have already organized a few domestic tournaments successfully and I am confident that the ADWPJJC will also be held in its trademark