Pakistan made remarkable strides at the 2026 South Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship held in Dagana, Sri Lanka, achieving a historic clean sweep in the Duo category across various age divisions. The nation finished second overall in the medal standings, amassing a total of 22 medals, including 12 gold, 5 silver, and 5 bronze.
In the Adult Duo events, M. Ali Rashid and M. Yousuf Ali captured gold in the Duo Men/Classic category. Meanwhile, Ali Rashid joined forces with Dr. Isra Waseem to secure another gold in Duo Mixed, showcasing exceptional skill and teamwork.
The Show System categories highlighted further dominance from Pakistan’s athletes. M. Yousuf Ali and Umer Yaseen triumphed in Ju-Jitsu Show Men, while Kainat Arif and Isra Waseem clinched gold in Show Women. The gold medals continued as Muhammad Ali Rashid and Isra Waseem emerged victorious in Show Mixed.
The achievements were not limited to the Adult category, as the country’s young talents also shone brightly. In the Under-16 Ju-Jitsu Duo, Zunaira Zulfiqar and Sundus Ali earned gold, while in the Under-18 division, Muhammad Abdullah Ali and Sundus Ali secured gold, with Ibad ur Rehman and Muhammad Abdullah Ali finishing with silver.
The promise of the next generation was further evident through the outstanding performances of athletes like Rishaal Khan, Zunaira Zulfiqar Ali, Ibad ur Rehman, and Rashid Ali in the youth categories. These young competitors signal a strong pipeline of talent for Pakistan’s future in senior competitions.
In addition to their success in the Duo events, Pakistani fighters excelled in the Fighting and Ne-Waza categories. Muhammad Ali Rashid won gold in the -62 kg category, while Abdullah took gold in -77 kg. Kainat Arif earned gold in the -57 kg division, with Rishaal Khan adding a silver in -48 kg and a bronze in Youth Ju-Jitsu. Zunaira Zulfiqar also secured a bronze medal in the Under-16 -44 kg category.
Highlighting the achievements, Kainat Arif emerged as a standout performer, supported by Suhail Galadari, Co‑Chairman of Galadari Brothers. Khalil Ahmed Khan, Founder President of the Pakistan Ju-Jitsu Federation, expressed pride in the athletes’ accomplishments.
“Winning both gold and silver in all Duo categories is a rare achievement across any sport. The entire nation should take immense pride in these champions,” said Khan. His sentiments reflect not only the athletes’ hard work but also the growing reputation of Pakistani Ju-Jitsu on the regional stage.