Craig Jones Invitational: A New Vision for Grappling in 2025
Craig Jones is no stranger to shaking things up. Known for his sharp humor and even sharper submissions, Jones is now making waves as a promoter, aiming to redefine how grappling competitions are structured—and how athletes are paid. After the success of the first Craig Jones Invitational (CJI), Jones isn’t slowing down. Instead, he’s doubling down with a bold new vision for 2025.
Here’s what’s in store for CJI and why it matters for the future of jiu-jitsu.
A New Standard for Athlete Compensation
At the heart of Craig’s mission is the belief that grapplers deserve better pay—a sentiment echoed by many athletes in the sport. Reflecting on ADCC prize pools, Jones said, “You’re the best in the world, and you get $10,000 to win? I think that’s super messed up. Prize money should match the growth of the sport.”
CJI 2024 made headlines by awarding a $1 million prize to both Tye Ruotolo and Nicky Rod. It was an unprecedented move in grappling history. “If there’s a million on the line,” Craig quipped, “athletes will fight to the death.” And it’s hard to argue with the intensity of the matches at the first event.
For 2025, Jones plans to take things even further. CJI 2 will feature a team-based, quintet-style competition format, pitting top teams like Atos, New Wave, B-Team, Checkmat, Gracie Barra, and 10th Planet against each other for another massive $1 million prize.
Grappling Meets Innovation
Quintet-style team competitions aren’t new, but Jones promises to bring a level of production and stakes that grappling has never seen before. “Last time, we found out who the two best athletes in the world were. Now, we’re going to find out which is the best team in the world,” he said.
The event will combine team-based grappling with a lineup of exciting superfights. “This time,” Jones joked, “I won’t be fighting a woman. Although the guy has many feminine attributes.”
Jones has secured the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas for the event, promising a spectacle that will rival any major combat sports production.
Challenges and Controversies
Jones isn’t without his critics. From trademark disputes to social media spats with ADCC organizers, he’s taken his share of heat. In fact, Jones revealed he’s even received death threats from people within the industry. Still, he takes it all in stride, often turning controversy into comedy.
One thing is clear: Jones isn’t afraid to push boundaries. Whether it’s by offering record-setting payouts or calling out the status quo, his vision for CJI is a direct challenge to how the grappling world has operated for decades.
Why CJI 2025 Matters