What a way to begin the new season.
Team IZZA kicked off the 2026 competition calendar in spectacular fashion by capturing Double Team Gold at the Grappling Industries Malaysia Championship, once again proving that our academy continues to raise the standard of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Malaysia.
This tournament marked an exciting new chapter for the team as it was the first competition with Coach Adam Akasyah as part of the IZZA coaching staff. Together with Coach Steve, the pair led our athletes through one of the toughest tournament formats in the sport, helping Team IZZA begin the year with a statement victory.
Double Team Champions
Winning one team championship is difficult.
Winning both the Adult and Kids Team Championships at the same tournament is something truly special.
Even more satisfying was the manner in which the titles were won.
Our Adult Team finished with an incredible 3,080 team points, more than double the score of the second-place team, which finished on 1,426 points.
Our Kids Team was equally dominant, finishing with 1,742 points, comfortably ahead of second place on 959 points.
Across the tournament, Team IZZA also secured the highest number of gold medals overall, demonstrating the consistency and depth of our academy across every age group and experience level.
More Than Just Team Trophies
These victories represent far more than another pair of trophies.
They demonstrate that Team IZZA has built a complete competition programme.
A programme capable of producing champions in:
- Adults and Kids
- Gi and No-Gi
- Beginners through to advanced competitors
Success at this level isn't built around one or two standout athletes. It comes from having a structured coaching system, athletes committed to improving every week, and a culture where everyone pushes one another to become better.
Just as importantly, team championships are only possible when an academy has an incredible community behind it.
Every competitor who steps onto the mats earns valuable points for the team, and every parent, teammate, and supporter who makes the journey to the tournament helps create an environment where athletes can perform at their best.
One of the Toughest Tournament Formats
Grappling Industries is renowned for its challenging round-robin format, requiring athletes to compete multiple times throughout the day rather than relying on a single elimination bracket.
That means competitors must remain physically and mentally prepared from their opening match right through to the finals, often facing several high-level opponents in quick succession.
It's a true test of endurance, consistency, and resilience.
Our athletes embraced the challenge and delivered outstanding performances from start to finish.
A Strong Start for Coach Adam
This tournament also marked the competitive debut of Coach Adam Akasyah as part of Team IZZA's coaching staff.
Working alongside Coach Steve, the two coaches prepared athletes before every match, provided technical guidance throughout the day, and helped competitors stay composed under pressure.
The chemistry between the coaching team was evident from the opening rounds, and seeing our athletes perform with confidence throughout the tournament was a fantastic way to begin this new chapter.
As always, a huge thank you also goes to Coach Doty, whose continued guidance, support, and contribution to Team IZZA remain an important part of everything we do.
Built by a Team
While the trophies are exciting, weekends like this are built through collective effort.
To every athlete who stepped onto the mats—thank you for representing Team IZZA with courage, discipline, and excellent sportsmanship. Every match mattered, and every point contributed towards these team championships.
To all the teammates, parents, friends, and family members who spent the day cheering from the sidelines, thank you for creating the incredible atmosphere that has become synonymous with Team IZZA. Your energy and encouragement make a genuine difference, and our athletes always know they have an entire team behind them.
Thank You
Finally, we'd like to extend our sincere appreciation to the team at Scramble Clash and the referees for once again delivering a professionally organised tournament. Events like these continue to strengthen the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community in Malaysia and provide athletes with outstanding opportunities to test themselves against high-level competition.
The Journey Continues
There couldn't have been a better way to begin the 2026 season.
Double Team Gold.
The most gold medals overall.
A successful competitive debut for Coach Adam.
And another reminder of what can be achieved when talented athletes, dedicated coaches, and a passionate community all work towards the same goal.
Alhamdulillah for a fantastic start to the year.
Now it's back to the academy, back to training, and back to improving.
2026 is only just getting started. 🥋🏆🔥
