Israeli Jiu-Jitsu Team Wins Multiple Medals at World Championship in Abu Dhabi

The Israeli national Jiu-Jitsu team concluded a successful World Championship in Abu Dhabi, highlighted by Nimrod Raider winning a bronze medal in the under-85 kg category on the final day. Raider, a double gold medalist from the World Games and one of Israel's top Jiu-Jitsu athletes, added another accolade to his record and capped a tournament with achievements across all age groups: under-16, under-18, under-21, and seniors.

In the senior division, 20-year-old Maya Bechar earned a silver medal in her first World Championship appearance after a close final against the reigning world champion from the UAE. Other competitors, including Saar Shemesh and Roy Dagan, reached bronze medal matches but finished fifth in the heavier weight classes. Earlier, athletes Noga Reshef, Maya Day, Mark Lipetz, Omri Habib, and Meitar Rosenfeld also placed fifth, while younger competitors Noga Reshef and Leah Shalev won gold in the gi category.

The No-Gi cadet and youth teams also performed strongly, with notable winners such as Guy Torres, crowned under-18 world champion, Eden Gamliel and Shalev Shnir taking silver, and Tamir Naim earning bronze. Throughout the championship, the Israeli team collected numerous medals and commendable results.

Israeli Ambassador to the UAE, Yossi Shelly, supported the team by attending many matches and presenting medals during the award ceremonies. Eran Elroi, president of the Israeli Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the athletes and coaching staff for their dedication and professionalism, expressing gratitude to the federation, the "Eilat" sports association, and Ambassador Shelly for their support.

Eric Kaplan, president and CEO of the "Eilat" association, highlighted the team's depth from youth to senior levels and expressed pride in Israel's strong presence on the podium. He pledged continued support for the development of Jiu-Jitsu in Israel, emphasizing the sport's role in bringing international pride to the country.