The second annual Abu Dhabi Pro will be held in April but first, grapple-focused fighters will compete in the Australasia trials from 9am at Endeavour Sports High on November 15.

Tournament organiser John Shimooka said locals had a great chance of a place in the exclusive competition.

"It's in their own backyard,'' Shimooka said. "You have somewhat of an advantage and I think the local guys will do extremely well.''

Female fighters will be split in the under-63kg and over-63kg divisions and the men will have seven spots: two in the white and blue belt - U-73kg and over-73kg divisions - and five in the purple, brown and black belt U-65kg, U-74kg, U-83kg, U-92kg and over-92 kg

divisions.

Other qualifying trials will be held in South America, North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. "Last tournament, Australia sent six guys and came back with a gold medal,'' Shimooka said.

"The whole vision of the Sheikh is to turn the tournament into a professional circuit.

"It is just a matter of time before Australia gets put further on the map.'' The tournament starts at 9am.

Details: www.abudhabiproaustralia.com