Angolan Cardoso Family Shines at Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Event

The Cardoso family from Angola has become one of the most inspiring stories at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2025. This year, they arrived with eleven children who came to compete in the kids and youth categories. Their presence turned the championship into a special family celebration, where young athletes from the same family stepped onto the mats together. The Mubadala Arena became a place where their unity, discipline and passion were clearly visible to everyone watching.

Among the eleven children was 13-year-old Kayron Cardoso, who competed in the Boys Gi Junior Grey 34 kg division. He fought with great determination, winning his first two matches with confidence. However, he lost his third match and missed the chance to win a medal. Even though he did not reach the podium, Kayron remained proud of his performance. He said he fought hard, learned a lot and would return stronger next time. His positive attitude was admired by many at the arena.

While Kayron did not win a medal, the Cardoso family still enjoyed a successful day. The family celebrated three silver medals and one bronze. These were won by Kaynan, Marco, Kyllian and Nathalie. Watching siblings and cousins succeed together created a warm and emotional moment for the entire family. Their teamwork and encouragement for each other were seen in every corner of the venue.

The Cardoso family is known in Angola for their deep connection with jiu-jitsu. They train at Z1 Academy, a well-respected centre where martial arts are part of everyday life. The children belong to a family of strong fighters. Their father and uncles are all black belts, except one who holds a purple belt. This long family tradition plays an important role in shaping their discipline and love for the sport.

Their grandmother, Filomena Silva, also travelled with them to Abu Dhabi. She has been seen every day in the stands cheering loudly for her grandchildren. Her pride and excitement add a special emotional touch to their journey. The family also remembers their late grandfather, General Flavio Alves Cardoso, a respected figure in the Angolan army. His values of discipline and strength continue to guide the family, both in training and in life.

Kayron said that he wished to win the gold medal, but even without it, he felt proud. He explained that being able to compete in Abu Dhabi was a big moment in his life. He also said that seeing his family cheer for him gave him extra strength during the matches. He added that they trained together the entire year, and being at the championship together was a dream come true.

For the Cardoso family, jiu-jitsu is more than a sport. It is a lifestyle. The children grew up hearing their grandfather’s words that discipline is the beginning of everything. This belief shapes their training, their attitude and their goals. Even when they face losses, they accept them as lessons. Kayron said his father always reminds him that if you do not win, you learn. These words helped him stay strong and motivated.

Their inspiring family spirit has made the Cardoso family one of the strongest highlights of the entire championship. Their presence showed that jiu-jitsu is not only about winning medals. It is about building character, sharing passion and carrying forward a tradition that brings people together. Their story left a deep impression on everyone at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2025.