IN A David-versus-Goliath-like story, Mildura Martial Art’s Hussain Ibrahimi claimed two silver medals in last weekend’s New South Wales ADCC competition, submitting a number of larger opponents.
Ibrahimi competed in both the under 65kg and open weight divisions, having a number of “tough rolls” over the tournament.
“In my division, I competed against another Afghani guy from the same culture as me and I ended up losing that one on points,” he said.
“In the open weight division, you have to compete against people of any weight.
“They could be 100kg and you could be 50kg.
“I came all the way to the finals and versed a guy who was a beast.
“He beat me by submission.”
Despite competing also in a lighter weight, division Ibrahimi showed his class to defeat four heavier competitors in the open weight division to make it into the finals.
“I got two submissions, one by arm bar and the other by arm triangle; one points win; and one walkover,” he said.
Ibrahimi said he was pleased overall with how he performed in the tournament.
“It was absolutely worth me going,” he said.
“It was an amazing experience.
“It was my first time competing without a coach and just going by myself was a good learning experience
“Going away all the way to Sydney was pretty amazing.
“The competition is one of the major competitions around the world.”
Ibrahimi and his teammates, Augustas McCallum, Lewis Florez and Ayden Russell, are now looking ahead to competing in the BJJ Australian Championships at the end of the month.
“I feel confident going into both of my divisions,” he said.
“I think I can pull out the gold like last time.
“The training has been amazing.
“I’m learning new things and every day I show up and do what I can.
“For the next tournament, I will look more into what my opponent is capable of, listen to my coach and not make stupid mistakes.”
