Interview with Rana Qubbaj before ADWPJJC13

Last updated on 15.02.2022 by

Hello Rana, can you please introduce yourself to our readers? 

Hi, pleasure to talk to you. My name is Rana Qubbaj. I am a Jiu Jitsu black belt from Amman, Jordan

Is it your first time participating in Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu Jitsu Championship?

Not at all. I participated in most of the editions since 2012, ever since I started training BJJ. Abu Dhabi World Pro is such a well-organized, beautiful event that has the best in the world competing under the same roof.
I think the editions where I medalled are always special to me. But generally I love this event, win or learn. It is always a pleasure.

How is your training going leading up to the ADWPJJC?

I am doing my best. Training is not within our control as much as people like to think. It has been slower than it could have been due to some injuries. But part of the experience is to learn to fight with injuries and learn to improve regardless of circumstances. Also, having a full-time job means I can’t really camp for competitions, but I believe consistent hard smart training throughout the year can make up for that.

How did the sport of Jiu Jitsu impact you on a personal level? Why do you recommend youth to practice the sport?

I believe the sport of Jiu Jitsu helped me mature as a person more than anything I have ever done in my life. The road is hard, especially if you chose to compete. And you have to learn and grow as a person to keep up with the hardships.
I think everyone should do some kind of sport to stay physically and mentally healthy, but Jiu Jitsu specifically will give you a lot of opportunities and priceless experiences.

How do you see Abu Dhabi hosting global Jiu Jitsu championships and giving the chance for athletes to compete against the best in the world?

I think Abu Dhabi has it all figured out by now. It has been a long time that some of the biggest events in the world has been happening there. And the events are always well organized and successful. They manage to attract the best in the world. So the level of the comp is always top level. They organize the events perfectly and the athletes have a smooth experience.

Who influenced you the most in developing your BJJ game?

I have been lucky since day one to train under 5th degree black belt Master Samy Aljamal. He has over 35 years experience in the sport, and he has been for sure the person who influenced me the most during my own journey. He has guided me through all aspects of the sport since day one. From what games to play and what games to avoid, to which weight classes and how much conditioning I should do, to how to handle injuries and my mindset, to name a few.

Would you like to give any advice to our readers that would help them either on the mat or in their lives?

Find things that excite you and drive you. Life is too short to spend it bored!!
Also, don’t ever accept obstacles. There is always a way to do something. Obstacles just mean you have to think of a solution. They are not by any means there to stop you.