Mokopane duo shine at Benoni grappling competition
Two Inner Strength Academy students competed at the Grappling Industries competition in Benoni, with one taking home a bronze medal.
MOKOPANE – Two students from the Inner Strength Academy recently competed at the Grappling Industries competition in Benoni, an experience that proved to be about far more than winning medals.
For Hussain Bux and Ahmed Bhayat, the tournament was an opportunity to test themselves, face their nerves and experience the intensity of stepping onto the competition mat for the first time.
‘I couldn’t feel my legs’
Bux, who has been practising jiu-jitsu for around a year and a half, admitted he was nervous before his first match, but equally excited about the challenge. One of his biggest challenges was the significant weight and size difference in his bracket, where he found himself the smallest competitor in his division.
Despite the nerves and pressure, Bux relied on his training, focusing on breathing and staying composed.
“There was insane pressure. I was super nervous and couldn’t feel my legs, but as soon as the match started, it got better.”
Although his final match ended in defeat, Bux still won a bronze medal. He said the experience taught him valuable lessons and showed him what he needs to work on.
‘Jiu-Jitsu makes you calm in every situation’
For Bux, jiu-jitsu is about more than physical fitness. He enjoys the problem-solving element of the sport, comparing it to a game of chess, while the discipline has helped him become more confident and better equipped to handle pressure.
“Jiu-Jitsu makes you calm in every situation and teaches you to believe in yourself.”
His first competition has also strengthened his determination to compete more often, with bigger ambitions already taking shape.
“I want to compete more and make it to ADCC and win ADCC,” he said.
‘Back to the drawing board’
Bhayat approached the experience from a different perspective, entering the competition feeling calm and composed.
“Stepping onto the mat, I just saw it as another roll at the dojo. But the toughest part was the fact that there was barely any time to rest in between matches. I learned I need to work a lot more on my cardio.”
While Bhayat felt he could have performed better in some matches, he was pleased to leave with valuable experience.
“I’m kind of happy about my performance, but also not. I could’ve done better in the other matches. Mistakes were made, but back to the drawing board now.”
For Bhayat, one of the biggest attractions of jiu-jitsu is the strong sense of community.
The journey continues
Both athletes now see the competition as the beginning of a longer journey. Another tournament is planned for December, when Inner Strength Academy students hope to attend as a larger group.
“This is the beginning of many more battles to come. We’re going to take SA BJJ by storm,” said Bux.
Bux and Bhayat thanked their coaches and teammates for their encouragement and support throughout their preparation and competition.
