Justin Williams won gold at an international jiu jitsu tournament after tragedy

JUSTIN Williams was training for his first jiu jitsu tournament overseas when he got the devastating news his sister in law had died from cancer.

Justin Williams is an amputee jiu jitsu fighter. Picture: John Appleyard

JUSTIN Williams was training for his first jiu jitsu tournament overseas when he got the devastating news his sister in law had died from cancer.

After encouragements from his family, the 34-year-old still competed in the Abu Dhabi para world titles last month and won a gold medal.

Justin Williams and Pedro Dornelles.

Williams then donated his $500 prize money to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

“The most challenging thing was the training leading up to it,” he said.

“I wasn’t going to go because it was just a bad time. My family really wanted me to go so I did in the end.”

It was the first time Williams fought in an international tournament against other para athletes.

He usually fights against abled-body athletes in competitions around Sydney.

“I’ve never competed against someone who is missing a limb before,” said Williams, who lost his left leg in a work accident four years ago. “It was good to meet other people who are like me.”

Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu at Bondi Junction, where Williams trains, will donate 50 cents for every check-in at their gym this month to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Head trainer Pedro Dornelles’ wife Victoria is also fighting cancer.

Follow Williams on Instagram: @justo.13.bjj