Craig Jones Invitational 2: The Future of Grappling Is Here
This past weekend, CJI 2 wasn’t just a grappling event—it was a revolution in how we view Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition.
Held under the bold vision of Craig Jones, this second installment of the Craig Jones Invitational delivered massive moments, thrilling drama, and historic paydays—all while challenging the status quo of traditional tournament structure.
Let’s break down what made this event unforgettable.
$1 Million Drama: B-Team vs. New Wave
The main event team tournament—featuring rebranded squads “Simple Man Martial Arts” (B-Team) vs. “Kingsway” (New Wave)—was nothing short of cinematic.
After a neck-and-neck showdown, it all came down to Nick Rodriguez, who pulled off a dominant performance in the final match, earning a unanimous 10-8 score to clinch a 47-47 tie and the team win by tiebreaker.
But the story didn’t end there.
Due to vocal concerns over judging decisions (including from Gordon Ryan himself), Craig Jones’ investor made a surprise move: both teams received $1 million payouts—a gesture that raised the bar for athlete treatment and sportsmanship in BJJ.
Helena Crevar: A $100K Crown
In the first-ever women’s openweight tournament at CJI, 17-year-old Helena Crevar stole the show, submitting Sarah Galvão via straight ankle lock in the finals.
Her prize? A jaw-dropping $100,000—the largest single payout ever in women’s BJJ.
Crevar’s win wasn’t just about the money. It was a clear sign that women’s grappling is ready for the spotlight—and that CJI is willing to invest in leveling the playing field.
Craig Jones vs. Chael Sonnen: A Superfight Spectacle
With Gable Steveson out, Craig Jones filled in to face UFC legend Chael Sonnen—and it was pure entertainment.
Jones choked Sonnen out twice with a buggy choke, in a performance that blurred the lines between high-level technique and showmanship.
Sonnen, ever the good sport, played it up post-match, joking that he wasn’t “actually out,” adding to the buzz and meme-worthy moments of the night.
Why This Event Mattered
Massive Payouts: Seven-figure team purses, six-figure individual wins, and generous finish bonuses set a new standard for competitor compensation.
Fresh Format: Team-based matchups, tiebreaker rules, and a hybrid of entertainment and elite grappling showed what’s possible when you rethink the tournament formula.
Inclusive and Innovative: The spotlight on female athletes and under-18 stars proved that CJI isn’t just about established names—it’s about building a future.
Free for Fans: The event was streamed for free—breaking down access barriers and growing BJJ’s global audience.
Final Thoughts from Bushido Academy
At Bushido Academy, we love seeing the art of Jiu-Jitsu evolve—and CJI 2 was a big leap forward. The energy, the stakes, and the stories from this weekend reminded us why we train, teach, and compete.
More than medals or money, it was about moments—the kind that inspire the next generation of martial artists.
Whether you’re a parent looking for a new path for your child, or an adult ready to challenge yourself on and off the mats, there’s never been a better time to step into Jiu-Jitsu.
👉 Schedule a free trial class and experience the community, confidence, and transformation that BJJ brings.
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