MANILA — Filipino jiu-jitsu sensation Aleia Aielle Aguilar reaffirmed her dominance on the global stage as she captured her fourth world title at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship (AJP), strengthening her claim as the country’s most accomplished young athlete in the sport.
The eight-year-old prodigy topped the Kids 2, Girls Gi, 22-kg A Class (grey belt division), shutting out Sarah Abuhijleh of the United Arab Emirates, 3-0, in the finals to secure yet another AJP world crown.
Aguilar earned her finals berth in emphatic fashion, submitting Maitha Almas of the UAE via armbar in the semifinals.
“I’m so thankful to God that I won again,” said Aguilar. “Thank you all, especially those who have been giving me encouraging words before this event.”
Regarded as one of the world’s premier jiu-jitsu tournaments, the AJP World Championship attracts elite athletes across all ages and divisions. Aguilar, competing in the highly technical discipline of Brazilian jiu-jitsu — known for its emphasis on ground control and submissions — continues to excel with remarkable maturity.
“I focus on every move. Be patient in practice because that is the key to winning,” she added.
Aguilar remains unbeaten in 2025. Prior to her latest triumph, she captured titles at the IBJJF Pan Kids Championship in Orlando, Florida, and the Marianas Open in Guam.
With world championships now in both the IBJJF and AJP circuits, Aguilar further cements her status as one of the brightest young stars in international jiu-jitsu./PN
