The Ultimate Judo Championships Make Their Debut in Manchester
January 14, 2026
British Judo are proud to be supporting the launch of an exciting new event for the sport with the Ultimate Judo Championships (UJC 1), arriving in the UK for the very first time on Sunday 1 March 2026 at the Bowler’s Exhibition Centre, Manchester.
Designed to showcase judo at its most dynamic, intense and entertaining, UJC 1 brings together elite athletes, innovative formats and a live arena experience aimed at both passionate judoka and new audiences alike.
Founded by James Warren, The UJC format blends traditional judo values with modern presentation, creating a fast-paced, spectator-friendly event that highlights the discipline, power and beauty of the sport, complete with athlete walk-ons, enhanced production, and broadcast-ready presentation.
Supported by Fuji Sports and Fujimats, who will be providing the teams with custom club Gis for the event, it will also be live streamed, with behind-the-scenes content, athlete features, and post-match interviews bringing fans closer to the competitors than ever before.
It is the first of a planned series, with further events scheduled later in 2026, with a longer-term ambition to establish professional judo leagues across multiple nations.
Doors will open at midday, with competition running throughout the afternoon and into an action-packed evening finale. All action will take place on a single 12m x 12m mat, ensuring fans never miss a moment.
Event highlights include:
- Mixed Team Championships featuring elite judoka across multiple weight categories
- Super Fight Match-Ups, including senior and Under 21 contests
- No-Gi Judo Super Fights, a rare and exciting presentation format
- High-pressure knockout bouts with prize money on the line
- A vibrant event atmosphere with a marketplace and social village
The final block is scheduled to begin at 5:00pm, delivering the biggest matches and championship-deciding moments under the lights.
Whether you are a lifelong judoka, a coach, a club member, or simply a sports fan looking for an unforgettable live event, The Ultimate Judo Championships 1 promises a day of world-class action you won’t want to miss.
Event Details:
Venue: Bowler’s Exhibition Centre, Manchester, M17 1SN
Date: Sunday 1 March 2026
Doors Open: Midday
