The Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) debuted in August 2024 in Las Vegas, marking a milestone in the world of grappling with a historic prize of $1 million for the winners of each category. The event featured two main divisions: up to 80kg and over 80kg, bringing together some of the best athletes from the global scene.
In the up to 80kg category, Kade Ruotolo stood out by defeating Levi Jones-Leary by unanimous decision, with scores of 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47. In the over 80kg division, Nicky Rodriguez shone by submitting Fellipe Andrew with a rear-naked choke at 1:32 of the first round, securing the million-dollar prize. In addition to the main competitions, the CJI featured standout superfights, including the intergender matchup between Craig Jones and Gabi Garcia, which generated widespread media coverage.
The impact of CJI 1 was significant, with extensive coverage from specialized media and praise for the organization and technical level of the fights. The unprecedented prize money raised the standard of grappling tournaments, positioning CJI as one of the most anticipated events on the sports calendar.
In light of the success of the first edition, Craig Jones announced that CJI 2 will take place in August 2025, again in Las Vegas. The expectation is that the event will maintain the high level of competition and continue offering substantial prizes, solidifying its position as a prominent platform for elite jiu-jitsu athletes.
Craig Jones, renowned Australian grappler, is recognized for his performances in international competitions and his contribution to the growth of jiu-jitsu. With CJI, Jones not only raises the competitive standard but also promotes the appreciation of athletes, offering unprecedented opportunities and visibility in the sport.
With the confirmation of CJI 2, the jiu-jitsu community eagerly awaits another showcase of technique and competitiveness, reaffirming Craig Jones’ commitment to excellence in grappling.
