At the 2023 Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championships, Zayed Alkatheeri of Alliance entered the highly competitive rooster weight division. He had three fights throughout the event, emerging as the rooster weight champion. His Pans gold medal was the first won by an Emirati athlete. We caught up with Zayed to hear his thoughts on the title, when he’ll compete next, and much more.

How did you originally get started in jiu-jitsu?

"I live in Abu Dhabi, where the biggest jiu-jitsu project on the planet takes place with the support of His Highness Sheick Mohammed bin Zayed. I was introduced to jiu-jitsu in the National Project of public schools in 2017. I became interested in the martial art, and after two weeks, I was recommended by a friend to try out training where I met coach Ribamar Santiago, who taught and guided me from white to black belt.”

You do your training with Commando Group. Can you describe that team and what it’s like to train with them?

“Since February 2022 I have enjoyed the Commando Group training program, and it has been amazing! We have jiu-jitsu, judo, and wrestling classes, and we have high quality training partners, all of whom are committed to the success of the team.”

Can you describe your game for someone who has never seen you compete?

“I consider myself capable of interacting in all the positions of jiu-jitsu.  I’m comfortable standing, passing, and playing guard, which helps me to fight using different strategies and tactics.”

You just won the Pans as a rooster weight. What does it mean to you to win a major IBJJF title while representing your country?

“Fighting representing the values of the UAE is something that inspires and motivates me. Being the first Emirati to win a black belt medal at an IBJJF major event makes me very happy and proud.”

What advice do you have for athletes from your country looking to win a major IBJJF title?

"Work smart and hard, study, dedicate yourself, be resilient, and sacrifice. There are no shortcuts.”

When can we expect to see you competing again in an IBJJF event?

“I intend to work hard to repeat this good result at the IBJJF Worlds. It won't be easy, but I will work with my team to achieve my best performance in this event.”

You can watch all of Zayed’s matches from the 2023 Pans exclusively on FloGrappling.