In a historic step for ju-jitsu, the International Ju-Jitsu Federation (JJIF) and the World Para Jiu-Jitsu Federation (WPJJF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the aim of boosting the development and promotion of the sport in all its forms, including para jiu-jitsu (PJJ) and inclusive self-defense (ISD). The alliance reinforces the commitment to inclusion, diversity and integration of athletes with disabilities in official competitions.
The agreement, signed by the president of the JJIF, Panagiotis Theodoropoulos, and the president of the WPJJJF, Elcirley Luz Silva, seeks to ensure equal opportunities within ju-jitsu. To this end, both organizations will organize joint seminars and training sessions to improve technical standards and address issues such as harassment and discrimination in the sport.
MORE VISIBILITY FOR PARA JIU-JITSU
One of the key aspects of this collaboration will be mutual technical support. The WPJJF will provide assistance to the JJIF in the organization of para jiu-jitsu events, while the JJIF will guide the WPJJF in the implementation of international regulations, including anti-doping protocols.
The MoU also establishes the commitment of both federations to integrate para jiu-jitsu and inclusive self-defense into their official competition calendars. This measure will give greater visibility to athletes with disabilities and offer them more opportunities within the competitive circuit.
JJIF’S SIGNATURE WITH JU-SPORT
In continuous evolution, another example of strengthening Ju-Jitsu is the agreement that the JJIF has signed with a five-year strategic sponsorship with the German sports equipment brand Ju-Sports. The contract, which has come into effect in 2025, strengthens the partnership between the two entities and marks the beginning of a new strategy in the standardization of competition equipment.
Ju-Sports, an official supplier of the JJIF for many years, will continue to supply high-quality equipment for official competitions. From 2025, the federation will implement the “JJIF approved” stamp on equipment, establishing it as the mandatory standard in all ju-jitsu disciplines.
During the period 2025-2028, JJIF will work to facilitate the transition to globally approved equipment, encouraging athletes and organizations to adopt the federation’s official products.
PROFESSIONALIZATION AND SAFETY
The agreement with Ju-Sports reflects the JJIF’s commitment to raising the level of professionalization of ju-jitsu and ensuring the highest standards in safety and performance. With this initiative, the federation seeks to offer uniform and optimal conditions in all competitions, benefiting both athletes and event organizers.
