NZ National Sambo/Combat Sambo 2026

Kia ora everyone! We're excited to announce the New Zealand National SAMBO Championship , September 26 2026.

The purpose of the National Season is to provide New Zealand athletes with the opportunity to learn and compete under the SAMBO ruleset in a safe, structured, and internationally aligned environment. Athlete development and meaningful match time are at the heart of our season, creating a platform where competitors can build confidence, experience, and skill.

For those aiming to qualify, every event is a chance to sharpen your skills, test yourself in competition, and take another step toward that podium.

Step in, challenge yourself, and be part of the journey.

The purpose of the National Season is to provide New Zealand athletes with the opportunity to learn and compete under the SAMBO ruleset in a safe, structured, and internationally aligned environment. Athlete development and meaningful match time are at the heart of our season, creating a platform where competitors can build confidence, experience, and skill.

Our goal is to strengthen and grow the sport nationwide, while welcoming practitioners from all martial arts backgrounds to expand and refine their own abilities. SAMBO offers a unique and dynamic ruleset that encourages crossover and progression.

Sport SAMBO, with its dynamic non-striking format, is open to all — from complete beginners and athletes from other sports like rugby, to those with grappling experience like BJJ looking to expand their skills. It’s designed to complement existing training and competition experiece.

Combat SAMBO blends striking with grappling, creating exciting opportunities for athletes from Muay Thai, boxing, karate, and other striking arts to develop clinch work, ground control, and integrated match strategy.

A structured points system operates throughout the season, allowing athletes to track their progress and work toward selection for international representation. Our focus is not on a single win, but on consistent participation, performance, and growth — prioritising valuable mat time and long-term development over one-off results.

Together, we are building a competitive pathway that develops well-rounded martial artists and strengthens the SAMBO community across New Zealand.

#NOTE# Qualifier matches. Payable on the day. Must enter through Smoothcomp.com

Exhibition matches $10 Payable on day.

Who?

Whether you're a seasoned competitor or new to SAMBO, this event hosted in Hamilton is a fantastic opportunity to test your skills in a supportive and competitive environment. 

All ages, all levels are welcome!

What?

OPEN

The tournament focuses Sport & Combat SAMBO, where athletes score points through skilful manoeuvres and control and striking techniques.

Beginner and Open brackets.

When?

Saturday 26th September, 2026

Weigh In           12 pm   

Matches Start  12.30 pm

Tickets:

$5 Spectator

$10 Exhibition match (each)

$50 Open Match

Where?

AUCKLAND Venue TBC

Registration:

• Closes Wednesday, 24th September, at 11:59 pm (noon). Make sure to complete your registration before this deadline to secure your spot in the competition. (Will only take exhibition matches walk up)

•  Brackets detailing matchups and schedules will be posted on Thursday, 10th September, at 9 pm. 

Details:

- Weight-in will take place from 12 pm on Saturday, 26th September, at Auckland TBC.

- It's crucial that all participants fit into their registered weight categories, and remember, you'll be weighed with your gear on.

- Weight tolerance of 0.5 kg allowed. However, if you're still outside this range, you may be moved to a different category that aligns better with your weight.

The gear requirements: 

1. You can wear either a judo jacket (also known as a judogi) or a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gi. Make sure it's in good condition and meets competition standards.  
2.  Participants are required to wear shorts during matches. Choose comfortable and appropriate shorts that allow for movement 
3. Wrestling shoes are optional and can only be worn if both competitors agree.   
4. Head gear and shin pads. 
5. Mouthguard 

(Some gear is available to use)