In a remarkable display of talent, determination, and national pride, Team Pakistan made history at the International Combat Ju-Jitsu Championship held in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA recently.
Competing against some of the toughest international fighters, Pakistan’s athletes delivered an outstanding performance, securing two prestigious gold medals and raising the country’s flag high on the global stage.
Global competition,
historic victory
The championship brought together elite fighters from across the world, each showcasing their best in the art of ground combat. Amidst this highly competitive environment, Pakistani athletes demonstrated exceptional skill, discipline, and strategy - proving their ability to compete and win against world-class opponents.
Medal winners for
Pakistan
Abdul Hannan Butt - Gold Medal, 93 kg category
Hannan Butt’s journey to gold was inspiring. After a series of powerful performances, he faced an American athlete in the final showdown. With composure, tactical brilliance, and sheer strength, he claimed victory, bringing another gold medal home for Pakistan.
Haseeb Mustafa – Gold Medal, 85 kg category
Haseeb Mustafa fought with remarkable resilience and technical mastery. In the semi-final, he overpowered a strong opponent from Morocco. He then faced a tough American fighter in the final, where his unwavering determination and precise combat skills earned him a decisive victory and a gold medal.
Leadership and
recognition
Team coach Babar Ismail Butt provided vital training and guidance, ensuring the athletes were physically and mentally prepared for the challenges of the championship. His role was pivotal in shaping the team’s success.
Shahzaib Nawaz Janjua, President of the Pakistan Combat Jiu Jitsu Federation, lauded the achievement, saying: “This victory in ground combat is a proud moment for Pakistan. It is proof that with proper facilities, training, and international exposure, our youth can achieve excellence on the world stage.”
Adding to the praise, Nawab Furqan Khan, Patron of Combat Sports in Pakistan, congratulated the champions: “These gold medals are a testament to the courage, skill, and perseverance of our athletes. Their success brings immense pride to Pakistan and opens new horizons for the development of combat sports in the country.”
A new era for combat sports in Pakistan
This achievement is not just a victory in competition - it is a milestone for Pakistan’s sporting history.
The performance of Haseeb Mustafa and Abdul Hannan Butt has inspired young athletes across the nation, proving that with hard work and support, Pakistani fighters can compete shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world.
The triumph is also expected to boost recognition of combat sports in Pakistan, encouraging investment, training facilities, and international collaborations. With such victories, Pakistan continues to strengthen its position in the global sports arena.
Looking ahead
The Pakistan Combat Ju Jitsu Federation has vowed to build on this success by preparing athletes for upcoming international competitions.
With continued dedication, the future of combat sports in Pakistan looks brighter than ever.
Team Pakistan’s golden success in Greensboro is more than a medal win - it is a powerful statement that Pakistan’s athletes are ready to make their mark on the world stage.