Overview: Day One Of The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam

Matches ran up through the semi-finals; all adult black belt divisions will resume tomorrow for the finals at 3pm GST.

Jan 12, 2018 by Chase Smith

Overview: Day One Of The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam

A thrilling first day of the 2018 Abu Dhabi Grand Slam wrapped up Friday with many of the organization's top-ranked competitors taking to the mats at the Mubadala Arena.

Black belt divisions ran up through the semifinals; the finals will be held Saturday at 3 PM GST.

Here’s a breakdown of the day’s events.

True to form, Jose Lima looked sharp in his only match Friday against Japan's Joao Kurakoa. Jorge Nakamura, Lima's rival in the rankings, placed fourth — meaning that Lima will have pulled far ahead in the rankings after this event.

Jose Lima vs Joao Kuraoka

Joao and Paulo Miyao tore through their matches Friday — both with submission victories, to earn their spots in the 62kg and 69kg finals, respectively, on Saturday. Joao's division only consisted of three people, and Paulo had a first-round bye followed by a walk-over win.

Joao Miayo vs. Jarrah Alhazza

Paulo Miyao vs. Daniel Vieira

Adam Wardzinski also had fantastic outing at the Mubadala Arena. He won both his fights via arm-in ezekiel choke and is moving on the 94kg final, where he'll face Helton Silva on Saturday.

Adam Wardzinski vs. Basel Fanous

Other Notable Results

Isaque Bahiense is in the 85kg final after one submission win and one victory via points. (Watch his first match). He's facing Charles Negromonte, who also had a fantastic first day at the Grand Slam.
Amanda Monteiro won a hard-fought decision over Amal Amjahid to earn her spot in the 55kg final against Ariadne de Oliveria. (Watch match)
Igor Silva submitted his only opponent of the day via triangle to secure his position in the 110kg final.