Midrand-based jiu-jitsu practitioner Bradley Maponya could get a chance to compete in the world championships, only if he can raise enough funds.
Maponya secured a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel to Abu Dhabi to take part in the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF) championships.
“It would mean the world to me to attend the championships. This is one of the most prestigious championships in the jiu-jitsu world,” said Maponya.
The UAEJJF African Continental Pro takes place between 2 and 3 March this year in Cape Town and the UAEJJF World Championships are set to take place in Abu Dhabi from 18 to 28 April.
Maponya added that although going to the world championships would be good for his ranking, his attendance would break new ground in the martial arts sport.
“The fact is there are issues of demographics within the sport. For example, there about two black people out of every 100 athletes taking part in this sport.
“I want to create awareness that there are other sports for black people. The community must get involved.”
Maponya has competed in national and international competitions in which he has won gold medals.
He is ranked third in his division and belt class nationally. To build a legacy in martial arts, Maponya also runs a jiu-jitsu school that aims to breed new champions in local communities.
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