In the ever-growing world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the spotlight has once again turned to one of the sport’s most controversial issues: athlete pay. While many competitors pour their lives into training, travel, and competition prep, the harsh truth remains—most major tournaments, especially those under the IBJJF banner, offer zero prize money.
But that might be changing… thanks to AJP.
World-class competitor and fan-favorite Roberto Jimenez recently took to social media to voice what many in the community have been thinking for years. With raw honesty and frustration, he called out the IBJJF for failing to compensate athletes who bring excitement, dedication, and elite skill to the mats:
“Professional Jiu-Jitsu athletes should get paid. Europeans, Pans, Brasileiro, Worlds, Gi & NoGi competitions.
We need to get paid for our effort, we are not monkeys in a zoo.
We are athletes, we are fighters, we are warriors. We deserve more.
There are world champions that have to work Uber.
We need compensation for making the show happen.”
AJP: Putting Money Where the Mat Is
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Grappling World Tour is set to land in Moscow and Vienna, and the prize structure is nothing short of motivating for any competitor ready to make their mark.
Prize Distribution (for Professional Divisions Only):
- 33+ athletes in a division:
- 1st Place – $3,500
- 2nd Place – $2,500
- 3rd Place – $1,500
- 17–32 athletes in a division:
- 1st Place – $2,500
- 2nd Place – $1,750
- 3rd Place – $1,000
- 2–16 athletes in a division:
- 1st Place – $1,500
- 2nd Place – $1,000
- 3rd Place – $500
All division winners also receive a full travel package to compete in the World Grappling Championship in Abu Dhabi, including:
- Flight tickets
- Hotel accommodations
- Competition fee coverage
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In Abu Dhabi, there will the same Prize structure.
The Bottom Line: Get Paid to Compete
While many organizations are still catching up, AJP is raising the bar by showing what it looks like to treat athletes like professionals—not just hobbyists with medals. The stakes are higher, the rewards are real, and the message is clear:
If you’re serious about your Jiu-Jitsu career, AJP is where you need to be.
Don’t miss the chance to compete, get paid, and represent on a global stage.
Moscow and Vienna are calling. Abu Dhabi awaits.
Get in the game.
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
