Today's Edition
MAITHEM AL ANBARI (ABU DHABI)
A 11-day-long Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship concluded last weekend, and one story stood out among the record 10,000-plus field of competitors. The Cardosos from Angola captured hearts in the emirate this year when 11 children of the family competed in the kids and youth divisions on the Mubadala Arena mats.
The roots of this family story lie in Angola’s Z1 Academy, where jiu-jitsu is woven into the fabric of their daily lives. The children are descendants of four black-belt brothers and a sibling who holds a purple belt.
Their grandmother, Filomena Silva, accompanied them to Abu Dhabi, becoming a cherished presence in the stands. The family’s legacy is deeply anchored in the teachings of their late grandfather, Flavio Alves Cardoso.
Aletihad spoke with Pedro and Rui Cardoso, black belt holders and members of the Angolan family, regarding their academy and dedication to the sport. They recalled their first participation in the Abu Dhabi Championship, and how it has become an annual event on their calendar.
“The first time we competed in Abu Dhabi was in 2013. I was a blue belt then,” Pedro Cardoso said. “We came to have fun and didn’t know the magnitude of the event. Every time we come here, we organise everything. We travel with daughters, sons, nephews and mothers. Mothers come to support their children and grandchildren. I think this is the best way to win – making good memories with our family.”
His brother Rui recalled how their journey began. “My brother started after returning from South Africa. He introduced us to the sport, and we decided to open an academy in Angola to help keep young people off the streets.
“We are now four black belts and one purple belt. We are five brothers and one sister; she is the only one who doesn’t train. For us, jiu-jitsu is a lifestyle and self-defence.”
He recalled their first competition in 2010. “We did well and decided to continue. That’s why we attracted the whole family to this hobby.”
Rui expressed his admiration for the competition’s development. “Every year, the competition improves something. Something is new. For example, the players are harder. The infrastructure is different - becoming more beautiful than anywhere else.”
“The first time, we were a small team of eight or nine. We didn’t win, but it was okay. In Abu Dhabi, it is a lovely opportunity for all Angolan players to see how good we are.”
“This is our third time here. Last year, we won eight golds and two silvers. This year, we won three silvers and one bronze,” he said.
Looking ahead, Rui added: “I hope next year we bring not only the brothers and immediate family but all the cousins who play. I hope our kids continue this practice and introduce jiu-jitsu to their own children in the future.”
