Ju-jitsu broke all participation records at the 2025 World Police and Fire Games, held in Birmingham, Alabama, becoming one of the main attractions of the event. With 490 entries from 24 countries, the competition brought together police officers, firefighters, emergency personnel, and prison officers in the Ne-Waza Gi and No-Gi categories, consolidating the role of this martial art in the public service sector.
The organizational success was driven by Petro and Jacqueline Dutra and their team at Gracie Barra Trussville, as well as technical support from the United Society of JuJitsu Organizations and remote supervision from the JJIF, which ensured compliance with international standards under the regulations of the World Police and Fire Games and the JJIF. The Brazilian team, led by the ‘Corpo de Bomberos Militar do Distrito Federal’, topped the medal table, demonstrating Brazil’s strength in this discipline.
Ju-jitsu and Brazil, or the case of Ludmila Daniele Lopes
Ju-jitsu is an essential part of Brazilian culture and, for Ludmila Daniele Lopes, it has become a hallmark of her identity. Lopes, 35, Brazilian champion in May, traveled to Alabama with the support of her police department, which has fully funded her participation in the World Police and Fire Games.
Lopes began practicing ju-jitsu at the age of 26, a late age compared to most Brazilians, but that has not prevented her from excelling in competition. “Ju-jitsu is not just a competition for me. It’s a way of life.” For her, the key is mental strength: “I train my mind because I need to know that I am a champion, no matter what.” Her skills on the tatami give her confidence in her daily work patrolling the streets of Brazil.
Stories of overcoming adversity and community
Another notable participant was Eric Meyer, a lieutenant with the Mountain Brook Fire Department and co-founder of the Cahaba Brewing Company. With 22 years of service and at the age of 46, Meyer made his debut in an international ju-jitsu competition in his own city, motivated by the atmosphere of the World Police and Fire Games and the desire to represent Birmingham.
Meyer began practicing ju-jitsu in 2020, seeking a physical and mental challenge that would take him out of his comfort zone. “For me, it’s about the sport and the mental and physical training it gives me.” His participation in the Games is also an opportunity to share experiences with colleagues from around the world and enjoy the atmosphere of brotherhood that characterizes the event.
An event that brings together public services from around the world
The World Police and Fire Games in Birmingham have brought together more than 8,500 emergency services professionals from dozens of countries, competing in a wide variety of sports. Ju-jitsu, with its record participation, has been one of the main attractions, reflecting the diversity and spirit of achievement of the participants. Meyer sums it up this way: “The World Police & Fire Games are competition, but they are also community and an opportunity for men and women in public service from around the world to come together and share.”
The event has served to highlight the importance of sport in the lives of public service professionals, promoting physical and mental health, discipline, and camaraderie.
Next stop, Perth 2027
With its sights set on Perth 2027, the international ju-jitsu and public service community is preparing to continue growing and breaking records. The Birmingham experience marks a turning point in the history of the World Police and Fire Games, consolidating ju-jitsu as one of the most iconic and participatory sports of the event.
